§ 48. Captain CAZALETasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that a divergence of views exists as to the accuracy of the official figures given in regard to relative taxation in his country and in France: and whether he can state upon what basis these figures were calculated?
Mr. GUINNESS:I understand that the hon. Member is referring to a controversy in France due to calculations published there. and showing the conversion of francs into sterling at the, pre-War rate of exchange for the purpose of comparing French with British tax receipts. The figures which the Chancellor of the Exchequer gave in reply to the hon. Member for Moseley (Mr. Hannon) on the 24th February, were/ based on the official publications of the Government concerned in each case, and were given in their own currencies. I do not understand that their accuracy has been questioned.
§ Mr. H. WILLIAMSIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the French also contend that their taxation is high in relation to their taxable capacity?
§ Captain GARRO-JONESWill the right hon. Gentleman bear in mind the fact that many of these difficulties arise from the reluctance of France to face her obligations to this country?