HC Deb 06 April 1944 vol 398 cc2159-60
26. Commander King-Hall

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the maximum amount for War Savings Certificates which any firm has been allowed to contribute towards the cost of certificates for employees whilst charging such contribution as welfare expenses not liable to excess profit tax.

Sir J. Anderson

I regret that the information desired by my hon. and gallant Friend is not available.

Commander King-Hall

Do I understand the right hon. Gentleman is not aware of the allowances which the inspectors make.

Sir J. Anderson

Yes, certainly, but I cannot give an arithmetical figure indicating what is happening all over the country. They apply well known principles.

Commander King-Hall

Will the right hon. Gentleman indicate what directions are given by the Treasury as to this.

Sir J. Anderson

The provision in the Act requires that the revenue authorities should disallow any expenses in excess of the amount which the Commissioners consider reasonable. There is no similar provision in regard to Income Tax, but all the facts of the case have to be taken into account and I do not think that there is really any case for complaint.