HC Deb 19 July 1922 vol 156 cc2050-1
8. Sir W. de FRECE

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, seeing that the Customs jurisdiction on the high seas accords with the limit of the international three miles, it has been at any time suggested, and-if so, under what circumstances, that this policy should be remodelled and the right of Customs search carried out at a greater distance from shore?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

The question of remodelling the Customs Consolidation Act, which superseded the old Hovering Acts, with a view to extending Customs search beyond the three mile limit, has at no time been considered.

Sir W. de FRECE

Is the hon. Member aware that the United States Government have decided to revive the obsolete Act?

Mr. HARMSWORTH

Perhaps the hon. Member will give me notice of that question.