§ 54. Brigadier-General CHARTERISasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that the existing duty 1120 on imported cigars, which is assessed by weight, has affected adversely and unfairly the industry in India by penalising the lower-priced Indian cigars in comparison with the higher-priced cigars of foreign origin; and whether he will consider the advisability of reducing this to anad valorembasis, in order that Empire-grown produce may have an equal opportunity of securing a British market?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI am not aware that the existing duty has affected the consumption of Indian cigars in this country more than the consumption of foreign cigars. I have noted the suggestion contained in the latter part of the question.
§ Mr. MAXTONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this is a matter that is agitating the agricultural workers in the South of Scotland very much?