§ 40. Sir N. Grattan-Doyleasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware of the dissatisfaction existing with regard to the office accommodation provided for the officials responsible for the administration of the Income Tax, especially in respect of the lack of privacy accorded to taxpayers who are called upon to visit these offices and to discuss their personal affairs with the officials; and whether he proposes to take steps to cause more suitable accommodation to be provided?
§ Mr. ChamberlainEvery endeavour is made to secure satisfactory accommodation for tax offices, and, during the last seven years, 373 offices, more than half 423 the total number, have been rehoused, while the accommodation in many others has been improved. In addition, it is anticipated that 44 more offices will be rehoused during the present year. The provision of proper facilities for the discussion of the taxpayer's affairs in privacy is one of the factors considered in planning accommodation, and is at present being reviewed. I am aware that proposals for further improvements have been received from the staff associations concerned, and these are under consideration.
§ Major DowerWould it not be possible, in the meanwhile, for one or two private rooms to be available at Income Tax offices where these personal conversations could take place?
§ Mr. ChamberlainWe are trying to get that provided.