HC Deb 26 November 1946 vol 430 cc1410-1
54. Sir W. Smithers

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if, in view of the heavy clerical work involved, he will allow deductions for expenses in the collection and payment of Pay as you earn.

Mr. Dalton

The law is already what the hon. Member suggests that it should be.

Sir W. Smithers

Why is it then that many firms have' to employ extra secretarial staff to do the work for the Treasury, because if they do not make proper returns they are liable to very heavy penalties?

Sir W. Darling

Is the Chancellor aware that there are frequent instances of persons who are not making a profit in their businesses having to add to the loss they are already making by employing clerical staff to collect Pay as you earn?

Hon. Members

Answer.

Mr. Dalton

I am anxious to answer any questions which would expand the field covered by the original Question on the Paper. I doubt whether an answer to that question would do so.

Mr. Mikardo

Is my right hon. Friend aware that if proper systems of office machinery are used, the amount of clerical labour involved is by no means heavy?

Hon. Members

Oh.