§ MR. BOTTOMLEYI beg to ask Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the projected amalgamation of English soap manufacturers, he will consider the advisability of removing the existing duty upon the importation of foreign soap.
§ MR. ASQUITHSoap as such is not chargeable with duty upon importation. But a duty of 3d. per 1b. is levied upon transparent soap in respect of the spirit which is used in its manufacture. I am considering how far this duty places transparent soap of foreign manufacture at a disadvantage compared with similar soap of home manufacture, in view of the concessions recently granted in respect of alcohol used for industrial purposes.