§ LORD WILLISMy Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.
§ [The Question was as follows:
§ To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they propose to take any action to remove the anomaly which enables barristers who retire from the bar to avoid the payment of tax on a substantial part of their previous year's earnings.]
§ LORD SHEPHERDMy Lords, the Finance Bill does not include any proposals to amend the law in this matter. I understand, however, that in another place an honourable Member has given notice of intention to seek to add a new clause to the Bill which would alter the basis upon which barristers are assessed to income tax. I think that we should await the outcome before considering this matter.
§ LORD WILLISI thank the noble Lord for that reply.