HC Deb 06 May 1909 vol 4 c1189
Mr. WILLIAM REDMOND

asked if it is intended to place the new tax on the tobacco grown in Ireland?

Mr. LLOYD-GEORGE

The new rates applicable to tobacco grown in Ireland are shown in the Resolution passed on Thursday last. They are lower than the new rates on imported tobacco by the same amounts as the former rates on Irish-grown tobacco were lower than the former rates on imported tobacco.

Mr. WILLIAM REDMOND

In view of the fact that the prohibition against tobacco growing in Ireland has only just been removed, and that the whole industry though promising is in an experimental stage, will the right hon. Gentleman consider whether it would not be possible to relieve it of the extra duty of 8d. which will make the price so great that it will practically destroy an industry employing hundreds and hundreds of people?

Mr. LLOYD-GEORGE

Of course in regard to this as in regard to other matters I will consider all representations which are made to me.

Captain CRAIG

Will the right hon. Gentleman give a preference to any other Irish industry besides tobacco?

Mr. JAMES HOPE

Is it then a fact that in the case of tobacco there is a Customs duty without a corresponding excise of a like amount?

Mr. LLOYD-GEORGE

No, I think the hon. Member will find in the Finance Bill of last year that there is a corresponding excise.

Mr. J. HOPE

Of like amount?