HC Deb 07 April 1937 vol 322 cc173-4
13. Sir Patrick Hannon

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that the duty in the United States on standard rum made in Jamaica as compared with the duty in the United Kingdom tends to continuous increase of United States export trade to Jamaica; and whether he will consider a modification of existing duties on the import of rum to this country so as to encourage larger purchases of British goods by West Indian colonies?

Mr. Ormsby-Gore

The conclusion drawn in the first part of the question is not one which would appear to be borne out in fact. My hon. Friend will, no doubt, appreciate that the question of the duties levied on spirits imported into this country is one for the Chancellor of the Exchequer.