§ 90. Sir JOHN LONSDALEasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if his attention has been called to the fact that certain co-operative societies are endeavouring to evade Excess Profits Duty by giving discounts on purchases without checks; and if he intends to take steps to safeguard the Exchequer from the loss which will be entailed by this practice?
§ Mr. McKENNAAs I stated in reply to the lion. Member for Grimsby on the 22nd June, the practice referred to is receiving the careful attention of the Commissioners of Inland Revenue. To the best of my knowledge it is not widespread, and I do not anticipate that the revenue will suffer.
§ Sir J. LONSDALEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the co-operative societies recommended this system of giving discount—discount without checks—in order to avoid the enormous War Profits Duty exacted by the Government?
§ Mr. McKENNAI think such a statement was brought to my attention.
§ Sir J. LONSDALEIs not the practice very widespread?
§ Mr. McKENNAI do not think so.