HC Deb 31 March 1936 vol 310 c1825
60. Mr. R. ROBINSON

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether, in order to meet the financial difficulties of poor persons, he will consider the introduction of a system of quarterly dog licences?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

The Dog Licence Duty in England and Wales is not an Imperial but a local taxation duty. I doubt whether the hon. Member's proposal would be practicable or desirable, but in any case I could not consider legislation to give effect to it unless it were supported by the various local authorities concerned.

Mr. ROBINSON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the great hardship which may be caused to a poor person who is called upon to take out a dog licence and to pay a full year's duty in the last quarter of the year?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

It may be so, but my hon. Friend will see that that question is not relevant.