HC Deb 15 April 1948 vol 449 cc1166-7
55. Mr. Somerville Hastings

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury what percentage of the money paid to the Tithe Redemption Commission is received by local agents for collection.

Mr. Glenvil Hall

Approximately 63 per cent.

Mr. Hastings

In view of the uniformity and regularity of these payments, could not most of that 63 per cent. be saved if the money was collected directly by the Tithe Commission?

Mr. Glenvil Hall

Yes, Sir, but I understand that when the Bill went through Parliament in 1936 an undertaking was given to continue to employ these agents. As they give up, through death or retirement, the collection goes to the central authority.

Mr. Hastings

Is this not a gross waste of public money?

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