HC Deb 15 April 1937 vol 322 cc1177-8
63. Mr. R. Gibson

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether there is any change in the percentages of total income paid in taxation in the case of annual earned incomes of £100,£500,£1,000, and £10,000 from what they were as at the date of the report of the Colwyn Committee, when these percentages were 11.9, 6.2, 11.0, and 31.0, respectively; if so, what are the present percentages in each case; and whether he will have in view, when finally deciding on the incidence of taxation for the current financial year, the relatively heavy burden borne by persons of small means?

The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Mr. Chamberlain)

The amount of indirect taxation borne by individuals depends largely on their different personal tastes and the Colwyn Committee were careful to state that the tables on pages 94 and 95 of their report of November, 1926, had no official authority. In view of the great labour involved in bringing the tables up to date and of the hypothetical character of the result I do not feel justified in having their preparation undertaken. In reply to the latter part of the question, I can only say that all relevant considerations will be borne in mind.

Mr. Gibson

Does the right hon. Gentleman agree that since the date of the report of the Colwyn Committee indirect taxation on those with lower incomes has considerably increased?

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