HC Deb 26 February 1935 vol 298 c938
50. Mr. R. T. EVANS

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he is aware of the reduction in British exports of tinned, terne, and other coated plates since 1932; and whether, seeing that the Import Duties Advisory Committee have imposed a tariff of 33⅓ per cent. on imported bars, he will now take steps to secure a drawback of duty in respect of exported plates?

The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the TREASURY (Mr. Duff Cooper)

I am aware that there was a decline of about 14 per cent. in the quantity of coated plates and sheets of United Kingdom manufacture exported in 1934, as compared with 1932. The question whether a drawback scheme in this case would be in the national interest is one in the first instance for the Import Duties Advisory Committee under Section 9 of the Finance Act, 1932, and I have no doubt that they will give full consideration to the position disclosed by the trade statistics in the light of the many important interests involved.

Mr. HERBERT WILLIAMS

Have any complaints been received as to the price effect of the duty of 33⅓ per cent.?

Mr. COOPER

Not so far as I am aware.