HC Deb 23 November 1948 vol 458 c1076
47. Mr. Keeling

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he has considered Mr. Justice Vaisey's strictures on the Inland Revenue Department's practice of harrying individuals to pay Income Tax promptly while allowing the tax due from companies to be outstanding for a number of years; and what action he proposes to take.

Sir S. Cripps

There is no such practice. The Inland Revenue is concerned to obtain prompt payment from companies and individuals alike, but it will be understood that in particular cases there may be difficulty in reaching a determination of the liability.

Mr. Keeling

But is the Chancellor aware that the Judge, in addressing counsel for the Inland Revenue, said, "if you had not paid your Income Tax since 1941 you would be languishing in gaol," and does not the Chancellor think that the wide difference in treatment meted out to different classes of taxpayers in arrears ought to be narrowed?

Sir S. Cripps

There is no such difference at all.

Hon. Members

Oh!