64. Miss Rathboneasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he has considered the Lady Rhys-Williams' Scheme for Family Allowances and Social Security, of which he has received a copy; and if, in view of the favourable opinions of the scheme expressed by several leading economists and actuaries, he will expedite his decision thereon.
§ The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Sir John Anderson)I have seen these proposals. They raise very large issues of policy with which it is not possible to deal within the limits of a reply to a Parliamentary Question, but I do not regard them as a practicable or desirable alternative to the proposals put forward by the Government in the White Paper on Social Insurance.
Miss RathboneHave the proposals in question been submitted for the consideration of the Inland Revenue Department, and would it not be desirable to do so?
§ Sir J. AndersonNaturally, when proposals of that kind come before me I take counsel with those most competent to advise. The view I took is that these proposals would involve very fundamental changes in the sphere not only of social insurance, but also of taxation, and I think they are open to very considerable objection.
§ 65. Sir Adam Maitlandasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if the benefits proposed in the White Paper on social insurance will be taxable; and whether the contributions of employers and insured persons will rank for tax relief.
§ Sir J. AndersonPerhaps my hon. Friend would await the forthcoming Debate, which will no doubt provide a convenient opportunity for something to be said on this matter.