25. Mr. H. Wilsonasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware of new methods of avoiding stamp duties; and whether he will take the opportunity of the forthcoming Finance Bill to amend the Inland Revenue Regulations Act, 1890, so as to make stamp duties exigible.
§ Mr. PowellYes, Sir, but I have no reason to think that they are widely practised or lead to a substantial loss of duty. As regards the second part of the Question, I cannot anticipate my right hon. Friend's Budget statement.
Mr. WilsonHas the hon. Gentleman studied the article to which I drew his attention in the Scots Law Times, showing that for some strange reason this tax, alone amongst all taxes, is not exigible and that people cannot be forced to pay it but can be fined if they do not pay? Would the hon. Gentleman not bring to the attention of the Chancellor of the Exchequer the serious state of affairs which might result and the need to act in time, instead of waiting, as on previous occasions, until there has been a considerable amount of tax avoidance?
§ Mr. PowellI am obliged to the right hon. Gentleman for his courtesy in referring me to the article which he has mentioned. I have studied it, and I have brought it to my right hon. Friend's attention.