HC Deb 12 March 1942 vol 378 cc1191-2
43. Mr. Thorne

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he can give any information in connection with the charge made against Stanley Pearce Smith, a machine-tool fitter, who was charged, with five others, at Manchester Assizes with conspiracy to steal machine tools; if he is aware that the man Smith had not made any Income Tax returns; and how he intends dealing with the matter?

The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Sir Kingsley Wood)

The conditions of secrecy that govern the assessment of the Income Tax preclude me from furnishing any information regarding the liability of particular taxpayers. All I can say is that the Inland Revenue authorities may be relied upon to take note of any evidence that may reach them of cases in which liability to tax may be at stake.

Mr. Thorne

I take it for granted that the Minister knows where the five men are and during the time they are where they are will enable them to complete their education?