§ 10. Sir J. D. REESasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, while large numbers of Irish agriculturists are resisting the payment of insurance tax, no agriculturist in Ireland has been prosecuted for such resistance, while Berkshire farmers have in similar circumstances been haled before the local benches of magistrates and fined; and, if so, will he say what reasons exist for allowing immunity to Irish agriculturists in this behalf as well as exemption from medical benefits?
§ The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the TREASURY (Mr. Masterman)The Irish Commissioners are not aware that any large body of Irish agriculturists are refusing to pay insurance contributions. In cases of deliberate refusal to comply with the Act prosecutions are, and will be, instituted in Ireland as in England. Five prosecutions have already taken place in Ireland, of which three wore of agriculturists. If the hon. Member will inform the Irish Commissioners of the particular cases of resistance he has in mind they will be glad to consider the desirability of taking action.
Mr. WORTHINGTON-EVANSCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether in those three cases fines were inflicted, and whether any of them have been paid?
§ Mr. MASTERMANI must have notice of that question.