HC Deb 31 March 1936 vol 310 cc1824-5
59. Sir CECIL HANBURY

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he is aware that small boxes of shamrock sent by post from Ireland are taxed 6d. by the Post Office and 3d. by the Excise; and whether he can see his way to allow such boxes to come in free of tax on St. Patrick's Day and thus mollify Irish sentiment?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I am aware that shamrock imported from the Irish Free State is chargeable with Customs duty and that in the case of importations by post a Post Office fee is also payable. I regret that I cannot accept the suggestion in the latter part of the question.

Mr. LOGAN

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is very silly to charge shamrock coming into this country?