2. Mr. Creech Jonesasked the Under-Secretary of State for India what were the special qualifications of Mr. S. P. Chambers, recently appointed from England as Income Tax Commissioner for India at Rs.2,500 to Rs.3,000 per month, or four times his salary in this country; whether he is aware of the resentment which exists in India about this appointment when many other experienced and suitable candidates are available in India at a considerably less salary; and whether some more satisfactory method of appointment can be adopted?
Lord StanleyThe Government of India recently created a post of Income Tax adviser to the Central Board of Revenue. His functions, besides advising the Board on technical matters, will be to inspect and co-ordinate the work of the various income Tax offices throughout India, with a view to the introduction of improvements and up-to-date methods. The Government of India decided that, in the special circumstances, the best course would be to borrow an officer for three years from the Board of Inland Revenue. Mr. Chambers has had considerable practical experience as an inspector of taxes in this country and was a member of the expert committee which recently conducted an examination of the Indian Income Tax system. The Government of India are satisfied that there was no officer immediately available in India possessing the qualifications considered necessary for the appointment.
Mr. Creech JonesIs the right hon. Gentleman aware of the very strong feeling that has been expressed in respect of this 1377 appointment, and that it has been the subject of very considerable criticism in the Indian Press?
Lord StanleyI would assure the hon. Member that this particular appointment requires special technical qualifications, and I am convinced that the Government of India have made the best choice that they could.