§ 4. Brigadier Prior-Palmerasked the Secretary of State for War if he is aware of the serious effect on recruitment to the K.A.R. of the order which came into force on 1st April, 1948, under which officers are now subject to British rates of Income Tax; and what steps he is taking to improve recruiting.
§ Mr. ShinwellOfficers for the King's African Rifles are at present found by normal posting. Consequently there has not yet been an occasion for any effect such as suggested in the Question.
§ Brigadier Prior-PalmerIs not the right hon. Gentleman aware that this order affects a very large number of officers who were born in these territories and have never been to England in their lives, and is he not further aware that the direct result of this order is that a large number of these officers are not extending their service and that recruitment of further officers is being seriously affected?
§ Mr. ShinwellI am not aware of what the hon. and gallant Member has stated. All I know is that recruitment to this Corps has not been adversely affected because at present we are engaged in normal postings.
§ Brigadier Prior-PalmerIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that my statements are the result of inquiries which I made on the spot and that I can assure him that these cases are occurring?
§ Mr. ShinwellIf the hon. and gallant Member has specific information, I shall always be only too glad to receive it.
§ Sir Ronald RossWhy are military officers singled out for this order? Do other Government servants have to pay Income Tax on the home country rate and, if not why are military officers singled out for this burden?
§ Mr. ShinwellThat seems to me to be another question.