HC Deb 28 April 1931 vol 251 c1426
Mr. FREEMAN

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has any figures indicating the drop in prices, and the consequent saving to the community per annum, as a result of the cessation of import duty on the 1st May of packing and wrapping paper?

Mr. W. GRAHAM

I regret that the available information is not such as to enable an estimate to be made of the future course of prices.

Mr. FREEMAN

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that certain Continental firms have already quoted a reduction of 16 per cent. in their prices, to take effect as soon as this duty is cancelled?

Mr. GRAHAM

Yes, that may be so, but what my hon. Friend will observe is that this question relates to events after the 1st May, and I have no official information, and could not forecast the result.

Mr. HANNON

Is it the definite intention of the Government to allow the duties to lapse?

Mr. GRAHAM

That was declared to be the policy of the Government very shortly after we took office.