HC Deb 08 June 1888 vol 326 cc1525-6
SIR EDWARD BIRKBECK (Norfolk, E.)

asked Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer, Whether, taking into consideration the fact that since the vessels belonging to the Mission to Deep Sea Fishermen Society have sold tobacco duty free to the crews of fishing smacks in the North Sea, the "Copers," or floating grog shops, have greatly de- creased in number, he will arrange with the Custom House authorities that, in cases where a fishing vessel is obliged to return to port on account of stress of weather or for repairs, the unconsumed tobacco in the hands of the crew may be placed under seal while in port, in the same manner as in the case of a yacht returning from abroad with tobacco, wines, or spirits on board?

THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER (Mr. GOSCHEN) (St. George's, Hanover Square)

, in reply, said, that the Board of Customs would give directions to the Custom House authorities, that in cases where a fishing vessel was obliged to return to port on account of stress of weather or for repairs, the unconsumed tobacco in the hands of the crew sold to them duty free by vessels belonging to the Mission to Deep Sea Fishermen should be placed under seal while in port.