§ 33. Mr. THURTLEasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he can state the arrears of Super-tax outstanding on 1st April, 1926 and 1927, respectively?
§ The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Churchill)It is estimated that the amounts of Super-tax due to be paid but not paid at 1st April, 1926, and 1st April, 1927, respectively, were as follow:
The smaller arrear at 1st April, 1927, reflects the acceleration of assessment and collection obtained in 1926–27.
£ At 1st April, 1926 … … 23,383,000 At 1st April, 1927 … … 19,325,000
§ Mr. THURTLECan the right hon. Gentleman offer any explanation to the House as to the reason why these wealthy citizens are failing to meet their obligations to the National Exchequer?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLIn some cases it is because they are reduced to destitution. Every effort is made by the Inland Revenue to collect this tax, and it is shown by the high figures I have given that their efforts have not been wholly unattended with success.
§ Mr. W. THORNEHas not the right hon. Gentleman read from time to time about workmen being taken into Court because they cannot pay their Income Tax; and why are these wealthy people not taken into Court in the same way?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLWe use all our legal powers.
§ Mr. THORNEYou never take those people into Court?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLOn the contrary, that is frequently done.