§ 94. Mr. MACKINDERasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what period is required to elapse between the payment 714 of the duty on silk, or goods containing silk, and the obtaining possession of the goods?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLIn normal circumstances, not more than a few hours need elapse, so far as the Customs Department is concerned, between the time when the duty is paid to the Customs and the time when the goods may be taken away.
§ Mr. MACKINDERIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is reported that a week at the very least elapses before they get the goods after paying the tax, and will he inquire into it?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThe reports I receive do not bear that out.
§ 95. Mr. MACKINDERasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he can state the period allowed to elapse after export before drawback is repaid on goods containing silk?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLOn the average about three weeks elapse between date of shipment and payment of drawback.
§ Mr. MACKINDERDoes not the right hon. Gentleman think that is rather too long, and that the people ought to have the money rather than the Government?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLAs a matter of fact, it is believed that as the system gets more firmly rooted, the rate will be speeded up.
§ Mr. HARRISIs not this one of the weaknesses of having a tariff?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. Member must not put debating questions.