§ 59. Captain P. MACDONALDasked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he can make any statement with regard to the liquor smuggling which is at present taking place at sheltered spots on the South Coast?
§ Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLEIf my hon. and gallant Friend has information as to liquor smuggling at present taking place on the South Coast, and will furnish me with particulars, I will have the matter investigated. I would add that the possibility of smuggling of all kinds along the coast generally is receiving constant attention, and that suitable measures are taken to deal with it at places on the South Coast as elsewhere.
§ Captain MACDONALDIs my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that several prosecutions have taken place 241 recently and that the view is held that there are not sufficient coastguards to guard this part of the coast?
§ Lieut. - Colonel COLVILLEThese prosecutions show evidence of activity in the measures that are being taken to prevent this kind of smuggling; but if my hon. and gallant Friend has any information as to particular cases perhaps he will let me know.
§ Mr. MACQUISTENIs not the best way to prevent smuggling to reduce the present preposterous and iniquitous duties on these commodities, which constitute an inducement to smuggling?