HC Deb 25 July 1927 vol 209 cc855-6
83. Colonel DAY

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether his attention has been called to the fact that smuggling operations are being carried on in the caves of Sussex, Essex, and Kent; and whether the officers of his Department have investigated the matter, and with what result?

Mr. McNEILL

I am aware of recent correspondence and articles in the Press in, regard to alleged smuggling operations on the South Coast, but it would be against the public interest to give any particulars of any action taken by the Customs authorities in this connection.

Colonel DAY

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether his Department have investigated the statements made in the public Press?

Mr. Mc NEILL

They are perfectly aware of what is going on.

Mr. W. THORNE

Have any of the smugglers been caught?

Mr. McNEILL

Not so far as I am aware.

Lieut.-Colonel HOWARD-BURY

Is there any smuggling through the Channel steamers?

Sir COOPER RAWSON

Can the right hon. Gentleman state what cave the hon. Member has discovered in Sussex?