§ 67. Mr. THURTLEasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is in a position to state the approximate revenue which could be derived from the imposition of a special surtax of 2s. in the £ in addition to existing taxation on all unearned incomes exceeding £500?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI regret I am unable to furnish the desired estimate, as there are no Income Tax statistics in existence showing the amounts of investment income held by individuals in different ranges of income.
§ Mr. THURTLEIn view of the use that this might be in the future, will the right hon. Gentleman endeavour to get the information?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLEvidence was given before the Colwyn Committee, which gives some figures as far as they could be estimated relative to this particular point, but not on quite the same basis. The limitation of £500 was not introduced, and it is that limitation which makes it rather difficult to give the exact figures. I should be very glad to give the hon. Member the reference to the Colwyn Committee's Report, upon which, I have no doubt, he can found any propaganda in which he wishes to engage.
§ Mr. H. WILLIAMSCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether he has made any inquiries on this matter from the Independent Labour party as to statistics on this matter?