HC Deb 27 October 1947 vol 443 cc34-5W
Sir E. Graham-Little

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether, in view of the numerous purchases of real property at auctions in London by syndicates of aliens, paid for in pound notes, he will issue regulations to provide that evidence can be called for by tax inspectors who deal with the Schedule A Tax, to show the source of the capital used and particulars of previous tax returns on such capital and, in the case of quick resales. give similar powers to the office to which particulars of all instruments have to be delivered; and effect a general prohibition of sub-sales without disclosure of a previous transfer, and compel all auctioneers to deliver particulars of properties sold, price and the name and address of purchasers.

Mr. Dalton

I note the hon. Member's suggestion but I do not think I would be justified in imposing on auctioneers and others the duty of making such returns for the purpose of checking Income Tax assessments. I may remind him that the Revenue authorities have power under the existing law to call upon any person with whose return of business profits they are not satisfied to produce for their inspection any relevant books, accounts or other documents.

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