HC Deb 17 March 1927 vol 203 cc2187-8
49. Major-General Sir ALFRED KNOX

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware that the British community at Shanghai offered, either during or immediately after the War, to pay Income Tax and Super-tax; and why that offer was refused by the Treasury?

Mr. CHURCHILL

Suggestions regarding the collection of Income Tax were made by certain associations of British subjects in China during the War, but were not pursued in view of the difficult constitutional issues which they involved. The patriotism which inspired the offers is indisputable.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Will the right hon. Gentleman make application to these patriots in Shanghai for some contribution towards the cost of our Defence Force?

Mr. CHURCHILL

No, Sir, certainly not at the moment when they are suffering more anxieties than any other class of British subjects.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Does the offer include the payment of Excess Profits Duty?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I think the offer was made before that impost was devised.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Is it the case that firms out there were, paying no Excess Profits Duty, while competing firms registered in this country were paying it?

Captain CROOKSHANK

In view of the statement which he has just made, does not the right hon. Gentleman think the time has come when the very unworthy taunts levelled at this community by the Socialist party should cease?