HC Deb 02 March 1910 vol 14 cc853-4
Mr. FELL

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if his attention has been called to the fact that the surveyors of Income Tax are writing to taxpayers that a further statement or claim for Income Tax will be sent to them towards the end of March, and if it is intended by this that Income Tax will be required to be paid by traders and professional men before the end of March?

Mr. LLOYD-GEORGE

I am not aware that surveyors of Income Tax are adopting the course alleged in the question.

Mr. FELL

I personally have seen such a statement as is made in the question. Is it proposed to enforce the collection at 1s. 2d. in the £ upon all dividends paid, and not to put any pressure upon traders or professional men to pay the Income Tax due from them?

Mr. LLOYD-GEORGE

I am not aware that any distinction is drawn.

Mr. FELL

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the directors of the Bank of England have decided to deduct it at 1s. 2d. in the £?

Mr. LLOYD-GEORGE

I should have thought that that was obviously for the convenience of those who are concerned with the dividend. It certainly has got to be paid sooner or later. The declarations, both of the Prime Minister and of the Leader of the Opposition, have made it clear that whatever the decision of the electors the 1s. 2d. would be imposed.

Mr. FELL

Is it not a benefit for a man who owns money to be allowed to retain it in his money?

Mr. SPEAKER

We are getting very far from the question on the Paper.

Lord HUGH CECIL

Will not the Prime Minister reconsider his decision not to put down the Resolution legalising Income Tax, which would avoid all this?