HC Deb 26 July 1910 vol 19 cc1926-7
Mr. HUNT

asked what would be the import duty at ½d., per ounce paid to the Government out of £100 worth of raw tobacco of the value of ½d. per ounce; and what would be the import duty at 1s. per pound paid to the Government out of £100 worth of cigars of the value of £6 5s. per pound?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

The duty at ½d. per ounce on £100 worth of raw tobacco of the, duty free, value of ½d. per ounce would be £100. The duty at 1s. per pound on £100 worth of cigars of a, duty free, value of £6 5s. would be 16s.

Mr. HUNT

Are we to understand that in proportion to value in the extra taxation of the present Government the rich man only pays 1 per cent. on his cigars, while the poor man has to pay 100 per cent. on his tobacco?

Mr. HOBHOUSE

I understand that the hon. Member has been explaining to his friends that the foreigner pays the duty in all cases.

Mr. HUNT

I merely asked the right hon. Gentleman a plain question.

Mr. HOBHOUSE

And I think I gave the hon. Member too plain an answer.