§ Mr. MARTINasked the Prime Minister whether he will give an opportunity to discuss again in Committee Clause 10 of the Revenue Bill, which takes away for all time all the proceeds of Land Taxes from municipalities, in view of the importance of the matter to the County of London and of the fact that the clause was passed at a very late hour and under circumstances which prevented effective discussion?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI cannot accept the interpretation placed by my hon. Friend on the Government's proposals with reference to the Land Taxes. We have repeatedly explained to the House that they are put forward purely as a provisional arrangement which must be reconsidered when the relation of local and Imperial finance comes to be dealt with. This clause had already been discussed fully on the Resolution and on the Second Reading of the Bill. I cannot see my way to a recommital of the clause.
§ Mr. BYLESIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there are a good many Members who still desire to take part in the matter, and that there is a good deal of dissatisfaction in the country, and would it not be possible to recommit the Bill as far as that clause is concerned?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI have already said there will be a full opportunity.
§ Lord HUGH CECILDoes the right hon. Gentleman suggest that the discussion in Committee was inadequate?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI do not think that arises out of the question.
Mr. PEELIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Government refused to accept an Amendment limiting the period during which these Land Taxes are taken away?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI was not here, and I cannot charge my memory with exactly what happened.