50. Mr. YOUNGasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the quantity and value of tobacco, cigars, and other dutiable goods confiscated by the Customs authorities during the last three years from people entering this country; and in what way are confiscated articles disposed of and to whom?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThe quantity of tobacco and spirits seized for breaches of the Customs and Excise Laws during the last three financial years is as follows:
Figures of value cannot be furnished, but such further particulars as are available will be found in the Reports of the Commissioners of Customs and Excise for these years.
Year ended Tabacco, Cigars, etc. Spirits. Lbs. Galls. 31st March, 1923 … 4,453 1,177 31st March 1924 … 3,915 915 31st March 1925 … 3,920 843 The confiscated tobacco in sound condition is sent to the Criminal Lunatic Asylums and to the Inebriate Reformatories for consumption by the inmates; the tobacco unfit for human consumption, but useful for fumigating purposes, is sent to the Botanic Gardens at Kew and Edinburgh. The other goods are sold by public auction or tender from time to time.