HC Deb 14 April 1930 vol 237 cc2624-5
38. Mr. HANNON

asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether he is aware that the import duty on motor cycles imported from this country into Czechoslovakia has been increased as from 1st April last by 17½ per cent., and that, before this increased duty was imposed, the import duty on these articles was no less than 41 per cent.; whether he has any official information showing that the French manufacturers of motor cycles are receiving special perferential treatment in Czechoslovakia as against Great Britain; and, if so, whether he will make representations to the Czechoslovakian Government with a view to the modification of the new duties as against Great Britain?

Mr. GILLETT

I am not aware of any change in the Customs Duty on motor cycles imported into Czechoslovakia. By a recent decree there has been an alteration, as from 1st April, in the assessment of the turnover tax levied on the importation of certain articles. Motor cycles are now taxed at 250 crowns per 100 kilos gross weight instead of the former rate of 2 per cent. ad valorem. I am not aware that French motor cycles receive preferential treatment. Steps have already been taken by His Majesty's Commercial Secretary to secure, if possible, that the new taxation shall not apply to goods in transit or in customs warehouses. I am endeavouring to obtain some further information in regard to the tax with a view to approaching the Czechoslovakian Government on the subject.

Mr. HANNON

Will the hon. Member, in approaching the Government of Czechoslovakia on this important point, call their attention to the fact that the balance of trade between their country and ours is £7,000,000 in their favour, and will he ask them to make some concession on this matter.

Mr. ARTHUR MICHAEL SAMUEL

Is not this very important to our export trade and will the hon. Member convey this information to the President of the Board of Trade as an indication of the result of his interference at the Geneva Conference?

Mr. GILLETT

We are still awaiting information, and, when we have it, we shall consider the possibility mentioned by the hon. Member for Moseley (Mr. Hannon).

Sir W. DAVISON

May I ask whether these duties have been put on as a result of the Tariff Truce?