§ 66. Mr. BOWERMANasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware that, with one exception, the companies operating in Smithfield Market and elsewhere in this country, and known as the Beef Trust of Chicago, have paid no Income Tax for over ten years, although their turnover in this country aggregates about £20,000,000 per annum; whether he is aware that the matter has been under the consideration of the authorities at Somerset House for nearly three years; and whether any proceedings have been, or are likely to be, taken against these companies, or are they to continue to be permitted to enjoy preferential treatment over British traders?
§ Mr. McKENNAI am aware of the matter to which my hon. Friend refers. I 1972 understand from the Board of Inland Revenue that some progress has been made which it is hoped may eventuate in a satisfactory settlement.