HC Deb 26 May 1936 vol 312 cc1827-8
51. Sir ROBERT YOUNG

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury the amount of money obtained for charitable purposes for the benefit of Service charities from Tattoo, Navy week, and Royal Air Force pageants during the past five years; and whether such receipts are subjected to Entertainments Duty?

Mr. W. S. MORRISON

During the five years, 1931–35, Service charities benefited to the extent of Approximately £75,000 from Navy weeks, and £61,000 from the Royal Air Force display and Empire Air Day. In regard to the Army, I understand that complete information as to these charitable funds is not available in the War Office, and could probably not be obtained without a disproportionate expenditure of time and labour. In regard to the second part of the question, generally speaking, Service charity entertainments qualify for exemption from Entertainments Duty under one or other of the relevant provisions of the law relating to entertainments given for charitable purposes.

Mr. DAY

Does the Minister consider that the small amounts from these very big displays are sufficient?