§ 31. Sir A. FELLasked the Prime Minister if he can make a statement with regard to the recommendation in the Geddes Report that a fee of 10s. should be charged on the filing of returns by friendly societies, which have been filed free of charge up to the present time; if he is aware of the anxiety which this proposal is causing among all branches of such societies, and that they are incurring great expense and trouble in preparing to oppose such a charge; and if their anxiety can be removed by an early statement of the intentions of the Government?
Mr. YOUNGI am not in a position to add anything to the reply given on the 1st May to the hon. Member for Frome.
§ Sir A. FELLCannot some decision be come to on this very simple matter?
Mr. YOUNGThe consideration referred to by the hon. Member is certainly being borne in mind, and the matter is occupying attention.
§ Captain GEEIs the hon. Gentleman prepared to receive a deputation on the question?
§ Mr. HURDIs the hon. Gentleman aware that a conference is now proceeding, or about to proceed, on the subject? Is there not a conference already in progress?
§ Mr. J. DAVISONWhat is the real object of this proposal?
Mr. YOUNGWith regard to the question as to a deputation, and the question put by the hon. Member for Frome (Mr. Hurd), I think the matter is 1784 receiving the attention of the Chancellor of the Exchequer, and he has had communications on the subject.