HC Deb 29 January 1913 vol 47 cc1321-2
32. Mr. ROYDS

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the grounds on which the Commissioners of Inland Revenue claim payment of Increment Value Duty on fortuitous windfalls and other profits when there has been no rise in the value of the site since 30th April, 1909?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

Where there has been a fortuitous windfall, and a price has been obtained in excess of the market value, the Commissioners of Inland Revenue can claim Increment Value Duty under Sub-section (2) of Section 2 of the Finance (1909–10) Act, 1910, as interpreted by the recent judgment of the High Court.

Mr. ROYDS

Does the right hon. Gentleman suggest that on the first Budget debates any statement was made by a Member of the Government that it was intended to tax fortuitous windfalls and other profits of the builder's business?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

That question has been asked and answered repeatedly, and has been the subject of debate repeatedly, and I have no doubt it will be again, and we cannot discuss it by question and answer.

Mr. ROYDS

Does the right hon. Gentleman think it will encourage building enterprise?