HC Deb 22 March 1932 vol 263 cc853-4
61. Sir CHARLES CAYZER

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury what proportion of the milk imports into this country are subject to the new duties imposed under the Import Duties Act on the basis of the trade figures for 1931?

Major ELLIOT

It is estimated on the basis of the trade accounts for 1931 that the general ad valorem duty will be paid on approximately 22 per cent. of the milk imports.

62. Sir C. CAYZER

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether his attention has been called to the fact that duty is not being charged under the Import Duties Act on imported sweetened condensed milk because such milk is already taxed on its sugar content; and if he will state for what reason this decision was reached, in view of the fact that double duties in respect of the Abnormal Importations (Customs Duties) Act and under legislation previous thereto are being charged on a number of other important manufactured articles?

Major ELLIOT

There is no analogy between the Abnormal Importations Act and the Import Duties Act since the object of the former was expressly to prevent the influx of certain goods into this country. I may point out that it is open to the advisory committee to consider the case of any composite goods and to recommend additional duties in respect of them.

Sir C. CAYZER

Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware of the great dis- appointment caused to home milk producers by this decision; and is he also aware that unless it is rescinded no increase in the home production of condensed milk is likely to take place?

Major ELLIOT

This decision in no way specially applies to milk. It is a general decision applying to all manner of goods which were recently brought in under the Import Duties Act.

Sir C. CAYZER

Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that there is an ample surplus of milk in this country to provide for our total requirements of condensed milk; and why is it necessary to import from abroad millions of pounds worth of a product which has to be marked "unfit for infants"?

Major ELLIOT

No doubt, those matters will be brought under review by the committee.

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