§ 17. Mr. Manningasked the Secretary of State for India whether a decision has now been reached in agreement with the authorities in India to re-transfer British soldiers serving with the Paiforce to United Kingdom Income Tax laws; and are the soldiers concerned registered as voters in elections to this House.
§ Mr. AmeryI understand the hon. Member is referring to British soldiers attached to Indian Army units in Paiforce. I have just heard from the Government of India that the accounts of the British other ranks in question are in the process of transfer to home paymasters, and they will thus be subject to British Income Tax. They have the same rights as regards registration as voters as other British soldiers.
§ Mr. ManningDoes the right hon. Gentleman recall the promise he made to me some months ago that he would let me know about this? Is he aware that I have heard from a soldier in India about it, and that if the right hon. Gentleman had remembered to let me know my Question would have been unnecessary?
§ Mr. AmeryI could not answer earlier, because I have only just heard that the arrangements have been completed.