The Chancellor of the Exchequersaid, that after the able report of the commissioner of inquiry, but remained for him, offer on the subject 705 of the bill which he was now to move the House for leave to introduce. The boards of excise and of customs in England, Ireland, and Scotland, were at present distinct, and consisted altogether of 39 persons. They were all under the general superintendance of the Treasury; but being totally distinct from each other, there was no uniformity in their practice—a defect which every one must see was calculated to give rise to great inconvenience. In order to simplify this machinery, and get rid of the defects, and he might say abuses, which had arisen under it, he was desirous to adopt the recommendation of the commissioners, by consolidating the customs and excise boards, in Great Britain and Ireland. Under this regulation the whole of the business would be done by 34 persons, instead of 39, as at present. There would always be resident commissioners in England, Ireland, and Scotland. The plan would be attended with a considerable saving of expense, and would prepare the way for other important alterations with respect to the levying of duties. He then moved, That leave be given to bring in a bill to consolidate the several Boards of Customs, and also the several Boards of Excise of Great Britain and Ireland."
§ Sir J. Newportexpressed his satisfaction at the prospect of a change, which he was confident would be attended with great advantage both to the revenue and the merchants.
§ Leave was given to bring in the bill.