§ 82. Mr. C. WHITEasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that trade is being handicapped by the delays and damage caused by the examination and sampling of goods by the Customs authorities to ascertain whether such goods are liable to duty under the Safeguarding of Industries Act; and whether, to facilitate trade, he will take steps to ensure that the shipping documents and, if necessary, a sworn declaration by the importer shall be sufficient proof to enable the Customs authorities to give a quick release and delivery?
Mr. YOUNGAs I have frequently stated, pending the final decision, immediate delivery of goods may be obtained on a deposit being made with the Customs Department to secure any duty which may prove to be chargeable, and I am not prepared to adopt the suggestion contained in the latter part of the question. It must not be assumed that I accept the allegation contained in the opening part of the question.
§ Major M. WOODIs it not a fact that this system of deposit increases the amount of capital required to carry on business, and is not that a bad system, in view of the scarcity of capital to-day?
Mr. YOUNGUndoubtedly the necessity of making a deposit may in some cases—I do not think in all—increase the amount of capital required in business. On the other hand, it is a very convenient method of dealing with the situation.
§ Mr. KILEYIs the hon. Gentleman aware that in one case no less than£600 was required as a deposit, and it took the applicant four months to get his money back?