HC Deb 04 March 1969 vol 779 c207
27. Mr. Dempsey

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will seek to exclude retirement pensioners' halls from corporation tax, in view of the fact that it restricts pensioners' activities; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Harold Lever

Much as I sympathise with my hon. Friend's object, I cannot accept his suggestion where the purposes of the relevant body are not wholly charitable.

Mr. Dempsey

But is it not rather mean that pensioners who own premises and make limited profits from such ownership, such as the Sunnyside Pensioners in Coatbridge, should be paying tax? Would not the money paid to the Exchequer be better spent on outings, entertainment and promoting the care of the aged members belonging to that association?

Mr. Lever

Where clubs qualify for exemption as charities those advantages follow. Where they do not, they cannot follow.

Mr. Speaker

Mr. Peter Mills to ask Question No. 28.

Mr. Peter Mills

No. 28—if they can find it, Mr. Speaker.