HC Deb 20 May 1909 vol 5 cc561-2
Mr. CLAUDE HAY

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer, in view of the duty on unmanufactured tobacco being increased to the extent of 8d. per pound, if he will say when the new schedule governing the rates of drawback on manufactured tobaccos and cigarettes exported as merchandise from duty-paid factories will come into force, and what will the new rates of drawback be?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

The new rates of drawback will be shown in the Finance Bill. My right hon. Friend is not yet in a position to state when they will come into force.

Mr. HAY

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the delay in publishing the new drawback has led to the discharge of large numbers of workmen?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

No; I have not heard that.

Mr. HAY

Is he aware that when the rate of drawback was changed in 1904 the change was made within a fortnight?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

I do not see that that affects this particular question.