§ 54. Mr. HARRIS (for Mr. FENBY)asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that the Customs officials in the United States exempt from duty articles acquired abroad for personal or household use, souvenirs, and curios by tourists up to 100 dollars in value; and whether he can give instructions for some similar exemption in the case of British tourists returning from abroad?
Mr. SAMUELAs regards the first part of the question, I have no definite information. In reply to the second part of the question, I would point out that many of the articles of the nature referred to would be free of duty on importation into this country. As regards dutiable goods brought by passengers for their personal use, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave him yesterday in answer to a question on this subject.
§ Mr. DAYCan the hon. Member say exactly what are the conditions under which tourists can bring goods into this country?
Mr. SAMUELI would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave to the original question yesterday. He will see it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.
§ Mr. DAYDid not the hon. Member then say that on certain conditions travellers can bring goods into this country and that the Customs officers were enabled to allow them to do so? Will he make known what those conditions are?
Mr. SAMUELIt is a very long list. If the hon. Member would like to know, and he will come to my room, I will place the list at his disposal.
§ Mr. HARRISWould it not be wiser to have some printed statement as to the things that can be brought in, and not leave it to the discretion of the individual passenger, who does not know exactly where he is in the matter?
Mr. SAMUELI believe that is done, but, if not, I will see that the hon. Member's suggestion is inquired into.