asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the total number of officials authorised to carry out inspections and investigations in private houses and premises without a search warrant.

The number of officials who may exercise statutory powers to enter private houses used exclusively as such is 5,478, of whom 4,484 are officers of the Inland Revenue mainly rating valuation staff; 974 are assessors acting for the War Damage Commission, and 20 are members or officers of the Board of Control.

Can the Chancellor say if that includes all premises—all private premises and business premises as well?

No, Sir, it does not include business premises.

Why not?

Because the Question relates to houses.