HC Deb 11 April 1927 vol 205 cc88-9
Mr. CHURCHILL

Now the breathing space is over. The precipice still confronts us. We must address ourselves to the climb. The task before us is that of finding, let us say, £35,000,000 or £40,000,000 of new revenue. And, in addressing myself to this, I will take the smallest items first. The Safeguarding of Industries procedure in the present year has evolved a duty of 28s. per cwt. for five years on table ware of translucent and vitrified pottery. I make this proposal in accordance with the recommendation of the Majority Report of a Committee duly appointed. The duty will become chargeable on 19th April, and it is estimated to bring in revenue to the extent of £150,000 this year, rising to £200,000 in a full year. This yield, though modest, ought not to be disdained, having regard to the financial situation. And incidentally the tax may win the gratitude of my hon. and right hon. Friends in the Liberal party by supplying them not only with a ground for moral indignation, but with an additional reason, if such were needed, for their continued political existence.