25. Mr. GREENWOODasked the Prime Minister if, in view of the increase in unemployment and the probable further increase this winter, he will give an assurance to encourage industry that in future the taxation of profits will be based on current trading, and not on that of pre-War years?
§ The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Chamberlain)As the House is aware, I am engaged in a careful review of our present taxation, and an examination of possible alternatives, but I am unable to make any fresh statement of policy at the present moment.
Mr. GREENWOODWill the right hon. Gentleman agree that it is quite as necessary that the policy of the Government should be to encourage employment in every possible way, as well as to look after the interests of the unemployed as they have decided to do?
§ Mr. CHAMBERLAINYes. I am happy to find myself in complete agreement with my hon. Friend as to that.
§ Mr. PEMBERTON BILLINGIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Excess Profits Duty is more responsible for unemployment in this country than any other thing, and is it not a fact that more is being paid out in unemployment doles than he can ever possibly hope to recover from the Excess Profits Duty?
§ Mr. CHAMBERLAINI cannot accept the hon. Member's premises, which lead him to an inaccurate conclusion.
§ Mr. W. THORNEIs that the fault of the bricklayers?
§ Mr. G. TERRELLDoes the right hon. Gentleman propose to accept the recommendation of the Royal Commission, and adopt the three years' average in the next Budget?
§ Mr. CHAMBERLAINWould my hon. Friend read the question? I cannot attach his question in any way to the question on the Paper.