§ Mr. JAMES HOPEasked whether the Customs Duty on tea in Ceylon is 25 cents per hundredweight, on wheat and rice 50 cents, and on flour 1 rupee; whether in each case there is any corresponding Excise Duty; and whether it is the intention of His Majesty's Government to acquiesce in the maintenance of such duties?
§ Colonel SEELYThe duty on tea is 25 cents a pound. In other respects the hon. Members figures are correct. The answer to the second part of the question is in the negative, and the answer to the third part in the affirmative.
§ Mr. JAMES HOPEMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he is aware that the duties on rice, wheat, and flour are higher than anything proposed by the right hon. Gentleman the Member for West Birmingham (Mr. J. Chamberlain)?
§ Colonel SEELYI do not think that really arises out of the question, which refers to tea. I do not think we can discuss this matter by question and answer across the floor of the House. I shall be glad to debate it.
§ Mr. JAMES HOPEMay I ask whether these duties are, or are not, higher than those proposed by the right hon. Gentleman the Member for West Birmingham?
§ Colonel SEELYI do not quite know to what particular proposals the hon. Member refers.
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. Member had better give notice of a question.