HC Deb 12 December 1933 vol 284 cc202-3
53. Mr. PIKE

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury the total imports of cider and perry not containing added spirit into the United Kingdom during the six months ended 31st October, 1933, together with the total receipts from duties paid thereon?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

The imports of cider and perry not containing added spirit during the six months ended the 31st October, 1933, amounted to 444,503 gallons foreign and 11,725 gallons Empire. The duty paid on foreign cider and perry not containing added spirit during the same period was approximately £1,674.

Mr. PI KE

Does the hon. Member realise that, while the quantity of imports are increasing, the actual duty payable on those imports has decreased by over 500 per cent. in the last year?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

It is an ad valorem duty of 10 per cent. and therefore amounts to 10 per cent. of the value of the imports.