§ MR. D. A. THOMAS (Merthyr Tydvil)I beg to ask Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer whether his attention has been called to the decrease in the quantity of stemmed tobacco imported into this country from 98,000,000 lbs. in 1902 to 11,000,000 lbs. in 1905, and the increase in unstemmed tobacco from 27,000,000 lbs. to 72,000,000 lbs. during the same period; and if he will inquire as to whether the present duty on stemmed tobacco is of a protective character, with a view to its early modification.
§ MR. MCKENNAThe figures quoted by the hon. Member as to the imports of stemmed and unstemmed tobacco respectively in 1902 and 1905 are the correct quantities (in round figures) as given in 1538 the Trade Returns. In reply to the second Question, I may say that the matter is receiving careful consideration.