§ 54. Mr. E. DAVIESasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer why information is no longer given in the Report of the Inland Revenue Commissioners as to the value of the estates in each class passing 1380 at death, although the number of estates is given; and whether, in view of the discussion on the taxation of capital, he will publish the information, so that the House may know how property is divided in this country?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe compilation of these figures is part of the statistical work which has been suspended for the present in consequence of shortage of staff. As regards the second part of the hon. Member's question, I would point out that figures for the War period, during which values are more or less abnormal, would not add to the value of the statistics published by the Commissioners of Inland Revenue for pre-war years.
§ Mr. E. DAVIESWhy is the number of the estates in each class given and not the total amount of the estates?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe answer which I have given states that the compilation of these figures is part of the statistical work which has been suspended for the present in consequence of shortage of staff.