HC Deb 25 March 1920 vol 127 c598
58. Mr. LAMBERT

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer, if he has received protests from county councils against the increase in taxation necessitated by carrying out the provisions of recent Acts of Parliament and the constant fresh requirements emanating from Government Departments; and whether the Treasury will oppose Acts of Parliament being passed which involve fresh burdens being placed on the ratepayer?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. While I am in a position to sympathise with the difficulties with which other financial authorities are faced, I do not think that the duty suggested can properly be regarded as part of the functions of the Treasury.

Mr. LAMBERT

Is my right hon. Friend aware of the extremely heavy rates which are crushing industries throughout the country?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

My right hon. Friend some time ago asked me whether I was not the guardian of the rates. That is not my function. It is rather that of my right hon. Friend the Minister of Health. My relations to the ratepayers are of a different kind. They are amongst my most dangerous enemies.

Mr. LAMBERT

May I ask whether he and his right hon. Friend will look after each other to protect the ratepayers and taxpayers?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I think we shall do better if we each attend to our own business.