HC Deb 07 July 1913 vol 55 c34
74. Mr. CASSEL

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer why he has continued to allow to Members a uniform deduction at the rate of £100 per annum from their salaries for the purpose of assessing Income Tax after the Comptroller and Auditor-General has called in question the legality of this course, and before any authoritative decision has been obtained?

The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Lloyd George)

As has been previously stated, I have been waiting for the Report of the Public Accounts Committee. This Report was circulated on Saturday, and is now under consideration.

Mr. CASSEL

Has the right hon. Gentleman forgotten that the Prime Minister made a specific statement that this practice would not be repeated pending the consideration of the matter by the Public Accounts 'Committee; and if he has forgotten it, will he allow me to refresh his memory by referring him to the OFFICIAL, REPORT, 8th April, 1913, Vol. LI., column 802?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

We are considering the Report of the Public Accounts Committee.

Mr. CASSEL

I would ask the right hon. Gentleman whether, notwithstanding the pledge of the Prime Minister, on the 1st July, when the warrants for the quarter's salaries were issued, this practice was repeated, before the Public Accounts Committee had made their Report?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

I am perfectly certain that my right hon. Friend never said that the practice which had been established would be altered until the Report of the Public Accounts Committee was received.

Mr. CASSEL

Will the right hon. Gentleman allow me to hand him the volume?