HC Deb 24 March 1919 vol 114 cc44-5
111. Mr. G. LOCKER-LAMPSON

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether a woman with an income from dividends marrying after the 6th May loses her right of claiming any relief from Income Tax for that year from the date of marriage?

The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Chamberlain)

The appropriate relief would be allowed in respect of the wife's income, but in the circumstances mentioned a separate repayment under Section 9 of the Finance Act, 1914, could not be granted.

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

Are we to understand from the right hon. Gentleman that there is no remedy under these circumstances?

Sir F. HALL

May I ask whether, on the introduction of the forthcoming Budget, steps will be taken to mitigate this great anomaly?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I must refer the hon. Member to the answers I have already given.

Mr. J. JONES

Will he also consider the desirability of relieving those women married to working men who have no income?

Sir F. HALL

Is the House to entertain the idea that the right hon. Gentleman will bring in that measure in the Budget?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I have nothing to add to the replies which have already been given on the subject.

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

May I very respectfully ask my right hon. Friend whether he will reconsider his decision not to receive a deputation on this subject from women?

Mr. J. JONES

And also from working women who have no incomes?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

An Inquiry is going to take place into the whole question of Income Tax, and I think it would be obviously wrong for me to prejudge the results of that Inquiry by receiving deputations and deciding upon the question.

Sir J. BUTCHER

Is it impossible to redress any anomaly pending that Inquiry?