79. Brigadier-General BROWNasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what are the numbers of trained valuation officials who will be required for the purpose of the taxation of land values; what qualifications must they have for the purpose; from what sources are they to be drawn; and whether there are sufficient experienced land valuers for the purpose?
§ The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the TREASURY (Mr. Pethick-Lawrence)It is estimated that about 1,000 officials with professional qualifications will be required for the purpose of the initial valuation. Only a small addition to the permanent staff will be needed when the initial valuation has been completed. The qualifications will be those prescribed for the existing technical staff of the Valuation Office. No difficulty is anticipated in recruiting experienced staff for the purpose.
Brigadier-General BROWNIn view of the fact that in the case of the last valuation there was great difficulty, will the Financial Secretary assure me that he has enough men without further training for this difficult task?
§ Mr. PETHICK-LAWRENCEThat is what I have already said.
§ Major COLVILLEIs this the Government's first attempt to provide direct employment?