HC Deb 09 June 1915 vol 72 cc336-7

Motion made, and Question proposed,

"That a sum, not exceeding £10,421, be granted to His Majesty, to complete the sum necessary to defray the Charge which will come in course of payment during the year ending on the 31st day of March, 1916, for the Salaries and Expenses of the Office of His Majesty's Secretary for Scotland and Subordinate Offices, Expenses under the Inebriates Acts, 1879 to 1900, and Expenses under The Private Legislation Procedure (Scotland) Act, 1899."—[NOTE.—£7,000 has been voted on account.]

Mr. RAWLINSON

In reference to the previous Vote, what I want to know is, am I right in thinking that before this question of the rating in Scotland of the sewers is decided the House shall have an opportunity of discussing it, so that it shall not be done merely as a matter of arrangement with the Treasury, without any opportunity being given to the House to discuss it?

Mr. WATT

In reference to the salary of the right hon. Gentleman, I understand that it has been doubled as the result of a private arrangement, and, if that be so, we must all congratulate him, as he deserves it.

Mr. HOGGE

I must explain for the benefit of my hon. Friend opposite that why I asked that this matter should be kept open was that I was going to raise the question whether sewers in Scotland should be assessed to Income Tax while sewers in England are not. I am assured by the Treasury that it may be necessary to raise it on the question of rating, and, if so, it can only be raised on the Local Government Board Vote, and I desire that the opportunity should be kept open.

Mr. WATT

rose—

The DEPUTY-CHAIRMAN

I have allowed this to proceed so far, but it is entirely out of order.

Mr. RAWLINSON

I can raise it on the Secretary's salary.

Mr. McKINNON WOOD

There is no intention of subjecting sewers in Scotland to more rating than the law permits.

Question put, and agreed to.