HC Deb 14 March 1935 vol 299 c557
49. Captain HEILGERS

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in order to stimulate home production, he will consider relieving home-grown tobacco of all Excise Duty?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

Tobacco grown in this country already enjoys a preferential reduction of duty of 2s. 2½d. per pound. as compared with foreign tobacco. The entire repeal of the Excise Duty would have an adverse effect on the very important tobacco revenue owing to the resulting tendency for imported tobacco to be displaced by home-grown tobacco. I am afraid that in the circumstances I cannot see my way to adopting my hon. and gallant Friend's suggestion.

Captain HEILGERS

Will the right hon. Gentleman reconsider the matter, in view of the fact that the crop can be grown with great success in this country, and that this gives a great deal of employment?

Sir ROBERT HAMILTON

Can the right hon. Gentleman say to what purpose home-grown tobacco is put?