38. Mr. DOYLEasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if his attention has been called to the fact that the price of tea has been considerably increased during the past few days; whether such rise is due to speculative profiteering or to a shortage of the commodity; and what steps, if any, he proposes to take not only to defend the public, but to see that such additional profits pay a corresponding share of the tea duty?
§ Sir R. HORNEAs regards the first part of the question, I understand that the increased price of tea is attributable to reduced production in India. With regard to the suggestion in the latter part of the question, I would remind the hon. Member that the taxation of profits of dealers does not come within the scope of the tea duty, which is a Customs duty levied on importation.
§ Mr. W. THORNEHas the right hon. Gentleman any intention of reducing the Tea Duty when he introduces his Budget?