HC Deb 26 April 1923 vol 163 cc679-80
92. Mr. HANNON

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that the ratio of revenue from indirect taxation to revenue from direct taxation in 1913 was approximately equal, and that the corresponding ratio of anticipated revenue during the current year is as 9 to 14; and whether it is his intention in future years, if practicable, to reduce direct taxation to a figure which will bear the same ratio to indirect taxation as in 1913?

Mr. BALDWIN

The figures for 1913–1914 and 1923–1924 are as follow:

Indirect Taxation. Direct. Taxation.
1913–1914 42.5 57.5
1923–1924 36.47 63.53
The last figure includes Excess Profits Duty as a direct tax. I do not think I can say now what form tax reductions will take in the future.

Mr. T. WILLIAMS

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the relative increase in interest with direct taxation is greater than that of direct taxation with indirect taxation?