HC Deb 14 March 1918 vol 104 cc480-1
54. Colonel ASHLEY

asked why, when the State contracts to pay naval officers so much a day and to provide them with lodging and certain victuals, and in some cases finds it convenient to pay officers money in lieu of such accommodation and victuals, Income Tax is levied on such officers in respect of such sums?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the answer, of which I am sending him a copy, given on the 28th November last to a similar question by my hon. and learned Friend the Member for Chatham.

Colonel ASHLEY

Could the right hon. Gentleman say if that answer justifies what is pure robbery on the part of the State, and if it is convenient to the State to pay a man in money rather than in kind, why should that be taxed?

Mr. BONAR LAW

If the hon. and gallant Gentleman will look at my answer he will see that, apart from the merits, it is simply carrying out the law as it stands.

Colonel ASHLEY

Will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to change this unjust law?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I do not agree that it is unjust, but it is a subject which can easily be raised on the Finance Bill, and I shall be ready to defend it then.

Mr. BILLING

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that policemen have to pay Income Tax on their boots?