53. Major MILLSasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the total number of male servant licences taken out in Great Britain in each of the last three years; whether the information in his possession would confirm the impression that over a period of years the tendency is for fewer of these male servants to be employed; and, if that is so, whether he will promote the employment of male servants by abolishing the Male Servant Licence Duty either with or without compensation to the county councils for loss of revenue?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINThe total numbers of male servant licences taken out in Great Britain in each of the last three years are as follow:
1824 During the past 10 years the number of male servant licences taken out in any one year has fluctuated somewhat, but the number at present is about the same as it was 10 years ago. As regards the last part of this question, I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the statement I made on this subject on 11th June, 1934, during the progress of the Finance Bill, when an Amendment to abolish the Male Servant Licence Duty was under consideration in Committee.
Year (ended 31st March) No. 1933 174,130 1934 172,900 1935 174,248
§ Mr. THURTLEWill the Chancellor of the Exchequer bear in mind that there is a good deal to be said for the suggestion in the question from the point of view of sex equality?