§ 7. Colonel WEDGWOODasked the Secretary of State for India what the deficit on the Indian Budget is estimated to be in 1921–22 and what deficit has to be met and provided for in 1922–23; whether the possibility has been considered of instituting Death Duties in India or of extending Income Tax to revenues arising from land; and whether he will suggest to the Joint Standing Committee the advisability of reporting on Indian finance in general and not upon Army strength and finance alone?
§ Mr. MONTAGUThe answer to the first part of the question is about 34 crores of rupees. The answer to the second part 32 crores. As to the third part, under the rules regulating the distribution of revenues between the Central and Provincial Governments it is contemplated that taxes on succession and revenue from land in general should fall within the provincial sphere. As regards the last part of the question, the hon. and gallant Member is aware that it is in the power of the Joint Standing Committee to take into consideration any question which they may desire to consider.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODWill the right hon. Gentleman make that suggestion when he appears before the Joint Standing Committee?
§ Mr. MONTAGUI have not yet had any request to attend before that Committee.
§ Colonel WEDGWOODYou will.
§ 9. Lord H. CAVENDISH-BENTINCKasked the Secretary of State for India whether a Resolution was unanimously passed by the Indian Legislative Assembly calling for the appointment of a Committee to inquire into the expenditure of the Government of India; and what action is being taken to carry this Resolution into effect?
§ Mr. MONTAGUI learn that the Government of India has decided to appoint a Committee to consider Government expenditure, but its composition and scope are still under consideration.