§ 49. Mr. A. Edwardsasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will consider inviting persons whose estates will be liable to Death Duties to pay such duties in advance under a form of taxation to be styled a Patriotism Life Tax; and whether he will make an appeal to people who can afford it to lend their money free of interest for the duration of the war?
§ Sir J. SimonThe proposal regarding advance payment of Death Duties put forward by the hon. Member is one which has been considered on previous occasions; and I am afraid that I cannot see my way to adopt it. In reply to the second part of the question, a number of public-spirited people have already lent sums, large and small, to the State free of interest and I have gratefully acknowledged their generosity on behalf of the nation. Such generosity involves a personal sacrifice which is additional to the common burden of taxation imposed by Parliament and I think that it is therefore a matter for individual initiative rather than for a Government appeal.
§ Mr. EdwardsCan the Chancellor give any idea of the total amount so lent to the State?
§ Sir J. SimonI cannot do so without notice.
§ Mr. ThorneWill the right hon. Gentleman draw this to the attention of those who apply for Treasury Bills?