§ 44. Mr. Ellis Smithasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware that Lever Brothers and Unilevers, Limited, have been carrying on the business in this country of a Dutch company during the enemy occupation of Holland and putting the profits earned into a special contingencies reserve; why Excess Profits Tax has not been paid upon these sums; and if he will take steps to secure for the British Exchequer a proportion of the profits earned by trade solely carried on in these islands.
§ The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Sir John Anderson)I would remind my hon. Friend that I am unable to furnish information as to the tax liability of a particular taxpayer.
§ Mr. SmithIn view of this concern's international relationship and the huge profit that it has made out of the food of the country during the war, has it met its liability to Income Tax and, if so, for which years?
§ Sir J. AndersonIf I were to give that information, I should be going against the principle that I have just enunciated.
§ Mr. SmithHas this company a number of subsidiary international companies and, if so, why has it set up a special contingencies fund? Has it been set up for the purpose of evading its responsibilities in this country?
§ Sir J. AndersonThe hon. Member must really trust the Revenue authorities to see that the interests of the country are protected.