§ Mr. YOUNGERasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer in what proportions wholesale, on-retail, and off-retail licences contributed to the sum of £2,450,000 received in respect of Licence Duty for the year ending 31st March, 1910; and whether he can give any estimate of the amount still to be collected for that year in respect of houses of over £500 of annual value?
§ Mr. HOBHOUSEThe sum of £2,450,000, which I mentioned in debate on the 20th ultimo, must not be regarded as a final figure, representing the actual yield of the "Surcharges" of Licence Duty for 1909–10, but merely as the best estimate that can at present be made of the probable receipt by the Exchequer when all adjustments have been made, and I cannot at present give the further details asked for by the hon. Member. I cannot give any estimate of the amount still to be collected for that year in respect of public-houses over £500, but the determination of annual licence values for these houses and also for hotels is being completed with all possible despatch, and it is hoped that the final liability of all licensees in respect not only of 1909–10 but also of 1910–11 will very shortly be decided.