HC Deb 29 October 1912 vol 43 cc226-7
35. Mr. GINNELL

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether the deduction of £100 from the Parliamentary salary for 1912–13 in respect of expenses is a concession from himself or has been made in pursuance of Section 51 of the Act 16 and 17 Vict., c. 34, as stated on the official memorandum?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

As I have repeatedly stated in answer to previous questions, the deduction was made by my instructions under Section 51 of the Act 16 and 17 Vict, cap. 34.

Mr. GINNELL

Is a uniform deduction of £100 considered in all the circumstances a fair compliance with the Statute?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

I think so.

Mr. GINNELL

Then will the right hon. Gentleman say by what authority the Income Tax Commissioners refuse to allow the same deduction in other cases?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

That is a question the hon. Gentleman has put once before, and I can only repeat the answer I then gave.

Mr. GlNNELL

May I ask whether what the Chancellor of the Exchequer thinks is better or the Statute is to prevail?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

I have done what I consider my duty under the Statute. If the hon. Gentleman does not agree with it, he has his remedy.