THE TAXPAYERS' RESPONSE.
Nevertheless, a further lesson to be derived from the Budget is the need for this effort being thoroughly maintained by the Government itself. In the course of his Budget speech Mr. Chamberlain paid a glowing tribute to the splendid effort put forth by the Income Taxpayer during the early part of this year, and he showed that it was to this effort that the surplus in last year's financial accounts was due. That effort, however, it must be remembered; was inspired by the lead given by the Government itself. Viscount Snowden's second Budget, which, without any ill-feeling, must nevertheless be described as a Budget of Repentance, showed that the Government -had had the courage to make- great cuts in the National Expenditure, and although the cuts were accompanied by an increase in direct taxation, the taxpayer responded not only loyally, but promptly because he felt that this time the sacrifice was not made in vain. Indeed, it might be said that he felt it was made for the good of the country and not for its undoing. That really, in a sentence, explains the prompt and loyal response of the taxpayer. and it is well that the Government should recognize it because it is indicative of the only means by which a repetition of the sacrifice, patience and endurance can be counted upon.
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