HC Deb 07 July 1936 vol 314 cc1022-3
48. Lieut.-Colonel MOORE

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that an application by the National Horse Association of Great Britain for the imposition of an import duty on certain categories of horses imported into this country has been before the Import Duties Advisory Committee since February; and whether he is satisfied that this committee has adequate staff at its disposal to enable it to deal with the applications made to it in a reasonably expeditious manner?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I understand that the delay in the case referred to by my hon. and gallant Friend has been due to the desire on the part of the committee to obtain further information as to the views of those most concerned and that this has only recently reached them. I have no reason to suppose that the committee's staff is not adequate for the purposes they have to fulfil.

Lieut.-Colonel MOORE

Will my right hon. Friend, in view of the importance of this matter to the horse-breeding industry of this country, suggest to the board the desirability of trying to come to an early decision?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

The fact that it is so important makes it very necessary that full information should be in the hands of those who have to make recommendations, and now that they have got that information, I have no reason to suppose that there will be any further delay.