HC Deb 02 November 1937 vol 328 cc718-9
51. Colonel Nathan

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what agreements have been concluded, or what negotiations for agreements are on foot, for reciprocal arrangements relating to taxation as envisaged by Section 17 of the Finance Act, 1930?

Sir J. Simon

Arrangements for relief from double Income Tax as regards certain profits arising through agencies have been made with Sweden, Switzerland, Finland, The Netherlands, Greece, Canada and Newfoundland. Negotiations are at varying stages of progress with Belgium, France, Germany, Norway, South Africa and New Zealand.

Colonel Nathan

Can the right hon. Gentleman say when he expects the agreements to which he last referred to be finalised?

Sir J. Simon

I cannot say that, but, as I have told the hon. and gallant Gentleman, the negotiations are at varying stages of progress, and I should, therefore, expect them to be finalised at different times.

Mr. Alexander

Is there any proposal to negotiate on this matter with the United States?

Sir J. Simon

There have been negotiations, I happen to know, with a number of countries besides those which I have mentioned, but I think that the question of the hon. Gentleman rather had reference to agreements actually made than to agreements contemplated.