§ 45. Mr. FELLasked the Prime Minister when he intends to proceed with the Finance Bill founded on the Resolutions passed more than than two months ago; and if he can give an assurance to the House that this Bill shall not be delayed as it was last year, when the Committee stage was not taken until December?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI propose to take the Report stage of the Resolutions on Monday next, the 24th, and thereupon the Finance Bill will be introduced. I cannot at present say anything as to the future course of the Bill.
§ Viscount HELMSLEYWill the right hon. Gentleman undertake to get it through before the Autumn Session?
§ Sir GEORGE YOUNGERIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that, owing to the delay last year, a concession introduced into the Budget did not take effect till this financial year?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI am quite alive to the necessity of making all possible dispatch.
§ Mr. CASSELWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that last year the Finance Bill was closured on the Second Reading after one day's discussion, and that a number of Members who desired to speak on it were unable to do so?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThis year there are no changes in taxation proposed in the Bill.
§ Mr. CASSELWill the right hon. Gentleman consider that Members are entitled to express their views on the general financial policy, notwithstanding that there are no changes in taxation?
§ The PRIME MINISTERYes.
§ Sir G. YOUNGERWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind that no opportunity has been given to review all the taxation of the country since it was imposed in 1909?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI should like to refresh my memory upon that.