§ 13. Sir B. Rhys Williamsasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what study he has given to the use of the income tax system to make positive allowances to people living on low earnings; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. DiamondSchemes of this kind are kept under review by the Departments concerned.
§ Sir B. Rhys WilliamsIs there not a need for an efficient system to provide a minimum income guarantee? Does the right hon. Gentleman agree that the income tax system could readily be adapted to provide this? Will he institute a serious departmental inquiry into the matter and publish its findings?
§ Mr. DiamondOf course we want an efficient system, and schemes of this kind are kept under review. I will consider, if the hon. Baronet thinks it would be helpful, whether some kind of report could be made.