HC Deb 07 March 1910 vol 14 c1153
Sir JOHN RANDLES

asked the Chancellar of the Exchequer whether persons who have paid Income Tax during the last few months in the mistaken belief that the Government would carry through the Budget and so legalise the tax before 31st March, will have their payments refunded should they so wish on making application to the Inland Revenue officers?

Mr. LLOYD-GEORGE

This is a question of law on which I am taking the advice of the Law Officers.

Sir JOHN RANDLES

Assuming the money was obtained, would the Chancellor pay interest to the persons by whom the money is being asked during the period the Government borrow it?

Mr. GIBSON BOWLES

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he is aware that by the Income Tax Act any taxpayer who pays his Income Tax before it is due is entitled by law to 2½ per cent. discount per annum?

Mr. REES

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether it is not also the case that the officers of Inland Revenue take care that money shall not be received in time to allow any such deduction to which my hon. Friend refers?

Mr. SPEAKER

It is impossible to answer questions put in that way. Perhaps hon. Members will put them down.