HC Deb 04 April 1939 vol 345 cc2615-6
45. Mr. Mander

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will consider the advisability of imposing a capital levy on property in this country, with a view to meeting the heavy cost of rearmament and as a demonstration to the world of our willingness to make sacrifices in the cause of National Defence?

The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Sir John Simon)

No, Sir.

Mr. Mander

Is it not very unusual for the Chancellor of the Exchequer to anticipate his Budget statement by saying that he will not impose certain taxes; and would it not be just as reasonable for him to make a statement on whether he intends to increase the Income Tax or not?

Sir J. Simon

I thought the curiosity of the hon. Gentleman had better be satisfied at once.

Mr. Stephen

Are we to understand from the Chancellor of the Exchequer that all the sacrifices in time of crisis are to be borne by the working classes?

Sir J. Simon indicated dissent.

Sir John Mellon

Is there not already in force a capital levy in the form of Death Duties?