§ 39. Mr. D. Jonesasked the Secretary to the Treasury what reply he has given to the representations he has received from the West Hartlepool Corporation about the proposed closure of the tax office in the town.
§ Mr. PowellThe town clerk of West Hartlepool wrote to the regional collector on 5th July. The Board of Inland Revenue has today replied, explaining that the new arrangements will cause little inconvenience to residents of West Hartlepool, but will make a substantial contribution to economy and efficiency.
§ Mr. JonesIs the Financial Secretary not aware that within five miles of this tax collector's office live more than 100,000 people? If this office closes it 538 will mean that the nearest office will be either in Durham, twenty miles away, or in Stockton, twelve miles away. Does he expect even the decent citizens of West Hartlepool to pay their taxes if he makes it as awkward as possible for them to do so?
§ Mr. PowellThe vast majority, of course, pay them not by going to the collector's office but through the post. I would remind the hon. Gentleman that poundage-free postal and money orders are available for that purpose.