§ 44. Mr. W. THORNEasked the Minister of Pensions if he is aware that the men employed at the King's Lancashire Convalescent Centre, Blackpool, are obliged to give a 2d. receipt stamp when their weekly wages exceed £2; and whether, seeing that this practice is causing dissatisfaction, he will take action in the matter?
§ Major TRYONThe practice of requiring a formal receipt for wages has been in operation in Government Departments generally for many years. Where the amount of the wages is £2 or more, a 2d. receipt stamp is necessary in accordance with Sections 1 and 101 and the First Schedule of the Stamp Act, 1891, and the Finance Act, 1920. A request for a modification of the existing arrangement has been put forward by the staff side of the National Whitley Council for the Civil Service, and is now under consideration.
§ Mr. W. THORNEAre we to understand that every employer of labour who pays a weekly wag© of over £2 to men or women is compelled to have a receipt stamp?
§ Major TRYONNo, but if a receipt is given, a stamp is necessary.
§ Mr. THORNEWill the hon. Gentleman reconsider this matter with a view to abolishing the receipt stamp?
§ Major TRYONI have said that the matter is being considered.
Mr. BELLIs the hon. Gentleman aware that some Government Departments are already dispensing with the necessity of stamps on the payment of salaries?
§ Major TRYONAll that matter is being gone into.