HC Deb 03 July 1913 vol 54 cc2178-9
30. Mr. PETO

asked the Secretary to the Treasury whether, under an Order issued by the Customs authorities, the importers of foreign-made boxes have only to sign a declaration that the boxes are intended to contain goods wholly or partly made in Great Britain to free them from the obligation imposed by the Merchandise Marks Act, 1887; that goods imported into Great Britain and bearing the names and addresses of traders in this country should be marked with the country of origin; and if so, whether he will consider issuing an Order which will recognise that the manufacturers of boxes are entitled to the same protection under the Merchandise Marks Act as the manufacturers of any other class of goods?

The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the TREASURY (Mr. Masterman)

The practice to which the hon. Member is no doubt referring has reference to imported empty boxes which bear marks relating, not to the boxes themselves, but to their prospective contents. I am advised that the practice is in accordance with the law, and I am not prepared to alter it.

Mr. PETO

Does the right hon. Gentleman mean that the practice is in accordance with the provisions of the Merchandise Marks Act of 1887 or of the Order subsequently issued?

Mr. MASTERMAN

I must have notice of that. I can only say that I am informed that the practice is legal.