HC Deb 21 December 1915 vol 77 cc187-8
33. Mr. DILLON

asked the Home Secretary whether his attention has been called to the fact that certain Englishmen with very large incomes have sold their property in this country and sailed to New-York recently, having taken precautions to escape Income Tax and Super-tax; whether they were provided with passports; and whether any steps were taken to warn the stokers of the character of these passengers?

Sir J. SIMON

I have no information to the effect suggested.

Mr. DILLON

Will the right hon. Gentleman inquire, and has he had hie attention drawn to the statement of one of his colleagues yesterday that he was aware of certain Englishmen who had done what is mentioned in this question?

Sir J. SIMON

I will certainly make inquiries. I do not know to which one of my colleagues the hon. Gentleman refers. I may point out to the hon. Gentleman that nobody, whether he be rich or poor, can leave this country without a passport or without being under very stringent conditions.