§ 52. Captain STRICKLANDasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that in cases in which permanent work is being found for unemployed mien as gardeners, chauffeurs, etc., extra to the number usually so engaged, the employer is being asked to pay an annual tax of 15s.; whether in such cases he will issue instructions that this demand shall not be made; and whether, in order to relieve unemployment, he will take steps to abolish the tax on men-servants?
§ Mr. HORE-BELISHAThe Male Servant Licence Duty in England and Wales is not an Imperial but a local taxation duty, and its administration rests with the county councils and county borough councils which receive the proceeds. As he has stated on a previous occasion, my right hon. Friend could not undertake to introduce legislation which would deprive county authorities of this part of their revenue unless he were sure of their unanimous consent and that a demand would not be made on the Exchequer to replace the revenue surrendered.
§ Captain DOWERWould it be possible to make a recommendation to the local authorities?
§ Mr. HORE-BELISHAI have no doubt that my hon. and gallant Friend's question will be so construed.