§ Mr. B. S. STRAUSasked whether, in case the annual compensation value of licensed premises exceeding £500 annual value cannot be ascertained in time for the present financial year, will the licensees in these cases have to pay duty equivalent to half their annual value?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEIn the cases referred to it will be necessary to provide for the issue of a licence on payment of a deposit. The point is receiving attention.
§ Mr. STRAUSAm I right in thinking that because the Government are unable to let them pay on the annual compensation value, the licensees will not be mulcted with a heavier duty this year than they would have had to pay?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEI do not think they will be mulcted in any way, but as I have said the point is receiving the attention of the Chancellor of the Exchequer.