HC Deb 10 May 1922 vol 153 cc2192-3
90. Captain BOWYER

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, seeing that the co-operative movement in the country is paying an unequal share towards taxation, he will, to the extent of such inequality, secure by fresh taxation on co-operative societies, but without re-imposing Income Tax or Corporation Tax, that these societies do not get any preferential treatment over other companies in the task of contributing to the taxation of the country?

Mr. YOUNG

I cannot, within the limits of a Parliamentary answer, deal with the implications contained in the first part of my hon. and gallant Friend's question. In view of the discussions and decisions in this House last year, I do not think anything would be gained by reopening the matter at the present time.

Captain BOWYER

Is it not the case that private enterprise and private traders are working at a disadvantage when compared with the co-operative movement?

Mr. YOUNG

I think that is a matter of opinion and argument.

Captain BOWYER

Is it not a matter which can be tested by the figures of the annual trading done?

Mr. YOUNG

The consideration of such figures would no doubt be relevant to the formation of an opinion.

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