9. Mr. H. Wilsonasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer by what authority special tax concessions are made to barristers ceasing practice; how far similar concessions are made to other trades and professions; and whether he will take the opportunity of the coming Finance Bill to correct any anomalies that may be shown to exist.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterThe Income Tax of barristers ceasing practice, like that of other trades and professions, is calculated in accordance with the normal provisions of the Income Tax Acts. As barristers' fees are not earnings for which they can sue, it is necessary always to assess barristers on a cash receipts basis. Other professional men are sometimes so assessed, but in cases where their earnings are of the class for which they can sue, this is permitted subject to certain conditions. It is a necessary consequence of the cash basis of assessment that earnings received after cessation cannot be assessed to tax, as the source of income concerned no longer exists.
The answer to the last part of the Question is,"No, Sir."
§ Mr. ShinwellIs it not the same—perhaps the hon. Gentleman will correct me 1375 if I am wrong—with hon. Members, who receive salaries and who could not sue in the event of non-payment?
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterPerhaps the right hon. Gentleman will put that most interesting question on the Order Paper.