HC Deb 26 April 1934 vol 288 cc1873-4
55. Mr. HALL-CAINE

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury how many additional revenue officers have been posted upon the frontier between Ulster and the Irish Free State since the imposition of special duties on Irish Free State produce entering Great Britain; and whether he is satisfied that their number is now sufficient to prevent smuggling over this particular border?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

The number of officials employed on Customs work on the land boundary has been increased by 67 since the imposition of special duties under the Irish Free State (Special Duties) Act, 1932. I am satisfied that all possible steps have been taken, and will be taken as experience suggests, for the prevention of smuggling.

Mr. HALL-CAINE

Does the hon. Gentleman realise that the wholesale smuggling is still going on over the border with great suffering to the Irish farmers and loss of revenue, and will he get into touch with the authorities?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

I appreciate the concern of my hon. Friend, and I hope that my answer covers the point.

Sir JOSEPH LAMB

Can my hon. Friend say whether the special steps referred to in his reply are those being taken by the cattle while illegally coming across the frontier?