HC Deb 16 November 1932 vol 270 c1135
52. Sir ROBERT HAMILTON

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what estimate has been made of the amount that will be produced in the current financial year by the duties imposed under the Ottawa Agreements Act?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

I regret that it is not possible at present to furnish the estimate for which my hon. Friend asks.

Sir R. HAMILTON

Do I understand that no estimate was made before these duties were imposed?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

Naturally the amount of duties we receive will depend upon the extent to which our purchases are diverted from foreign countries to Imperial countries.

Sir P. HARRIS

Is it not the general rule when a duty is levied for any purpose to make an estimate? Have not the Treasury been consulted and have they no figures available?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

I would not like to give my hon. Friend any figures that might prove misleading.