§ 55. Mr. G. LOCKER-LAMPSONasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many clerks are employed, directly or indirectly, on claims for repayment of tax; and what is the cost of that Department?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINA statement is being prepared of the staff engaged on claims for repayment and the cost for the year 1919–20, which I will communicate to my hon. Friend in due course.
§ 56. Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSONasked what is the estimated cost of the increase of the staffs of inspectors of taxes if they take over the duties now carried out by assessors?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINThe transfer to inspectors of taxes of the duties now carried out by assessors would not necessitate any increase in the number of inspectors. The cost of any additional clerical assistance that would be required cannot be precisely estimated, but would certainly be small.
§ Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSONIs the Chancellor of the Exchequer aware that the Royal Commission's Report practically showed that the present assessors have done their work with admirable efficiency, and will he reconsider his decision to abolish these officials?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI think we can better argue that question when we come to the Bill which embodies the recommendations of the Commission.