§ MR. D. A. THOMASI beg to ask Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer whether the regulations concerning the shipment of bunker coal on vessels provide that the quantity allowed is to be calculated on the daily consumption and length of the whole voyage outward and homeward; whether a vessel proceeding to Port Said, going on to the Black Sea, and then home will be permitted to take in bunkers for the whole round as is often the practice now, and be allowed them free of duty; and whether a vessel proceeding to Port Said and then on to America in ballast will be permitted to ship her bunkers free.
§ SIR M. HICKS BEACHThe answer to the three points raised is in the affirmative in each instance, provided that in each case the bunkers are shipped in this country.
§ MR. D. A. THOMASWhat provision is made in foreign ports to see that the tax is not evaded by boats taking coal in as bunker coal in this country and selling it as cargo at the other end?
§ SIR M. HICKS BEACHThe Customs authorities are advised that the regulations they have laid down will suffice.