HC Deb 08 December 1953 vol 521 cc1803-4
58. Mr. Nally

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will cause an investigation to be made into the circumstances under which certain football transfer transactions have involved the making of false or misleading taxation returns by the clubs and individuals concerned.

Mr. R. A. Butler

If the hon. Member will give me particulars of the matters to which he refers, I will cause inquiry to be made.

Mr. Nally

Is the Chancellor of the Exchequer aware of the series of Press statements made by Mr. Robert Smith, the very distinguished Chairman of Manchester City, in which he set out in detail a series of allegations which, if true, would justify the charges implied in the Question? Will the right hon. Gentleman make arrangements for an officer of his Department to interview Mr. Smith as quickly as possible to give him an opportunity of substantiating the charges he has made?

Mr. Butler

Usually we are aware of what prompts a question from an hon. Member. In this case I had not traced the source, and therefore I am much obliged to the hon. Gentleman and will certainly pursue the matter.