HC Deb 08 May 1934 vol 289 cc919-20
53. Mr. LAMBERT

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he is now satisfied that the precautions against the smuggling of cattle from the Irish Free State into Northern Ireland are effective; and whether the administration is exercised by the Government of Northern Ireland or the British Government?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

As regards the first part of the question, I would refer my right hon. Friend to the reply given by me yesterday to a question on this subject by the hon. Member for Henley (Sir G. Fox). As regards the second part of the question, the Customs service is administered by the Imperial Government, but, by arrangement between the Imperial Government and the Government of Northern Ireland, patrols of Royal Ulster Constabulary assist in the Customs work on the Land Boundary.

Mr. LAMBERT

Is the Government of Northern Ireland satisfied that the restrictions against smuggling are sufficient?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

I am hardly called upon to answer for the Government of Northern Ireland.

Mr. LAMBERT

Is it not a matter for the Imperial Government to exercise proper control?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

Certainly. That is another question. The Government here are taking every step in their power, and will continue to take every step in their power, to stop smuggling.

Mr. ANSTRUTHER-GRAY

Have the Government taken the step of strengthening the personnel of the Customs?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

Yes, they have.

Mr. C. WILLIAMS

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that no Irishman will ever stop another Irishman smuggling?

54. Sir A. KNOX

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury what steps have been recently taken to render smuggling from the Irish Free State to Northern Ireland more difficult?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

I hope my hon. and gallant Friend will appreciate that it would not be in the public interest to give this information.

Sir A. KNOX

To what extent has the hon. Gentleman increased the personnel on the border? At present it is a laughing stock.

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

We have increased the staff, but I hope my hon. and gallant Friend will appreciate that it is not to the public advantage to give too much information as to what we are doing and intend to do.

Mr. ANSTRUTHER-GRAY

Will the hon. Gentleman give the percentage of the increase of personnel?