HC Deb 04 June 1913 vol 53 cc897-8
Mr. KING

asked the Chief Secretary, whether the Belfast Customs authorities yesterday seized 2,000 rifles and bayonets which were being landed from the s.s. "Helen"; and, if so, whether these arms Were made in Germany?

Mr. HEWINS

Has the right hon. Gentleman carefully investigated whether the arms seized were wooden guns?

Mr. BIRRELL

I have not been informed of that. I have been informed that the Customs authorities in Belfast, finding certain cases not entered in the ship's manifest on the s.s. "Helen," in the exercise of their statutory powers examined the cases and found they contained about 500 rifles, apparently of Italian origin.

Sir W. BYLES

Is it the fact that the exporters, who are said to be at Manchester, are not known to the authorities, and if they are known, are they under observation?

Mr. BIRRELL

The Customs authorities have taken the preliminary steps and have detained these Italian guns, and further proceedings, I have no doubt, will be exercised in pursuance of the law.

Mr. CROOKS

Have they paid duty as foreign manufactured guns?

Mr. BIRRELL

Not yet.