HC Deb 24 May 1938 vol 336 cc1033-4
68. Mr. Christie

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the duty on cider imported from the United Kingdom into Eire has recently been raised from is. 6d. to 4s. 6d. per gallon, a figure which is equivalent to a complete embargo; and whether he will make representations to the Government of Eire with a view to a modification of these duties?

69. Lieut.-Colonel Acland-Troyte

asked the President of the Board of Trade the increase of duty on cider that has recently been imposed by Eire; whether this increase was imposed after the signing of the Irish Agreement; and what action he proposes to take with regard to this matter?

Mr. Stanley

The duty upon cider of United Kingdom origin on importation into Eire was raised from is. 6d. to 4s. per gallon by Budget Resolution on 13th May. While there is nothing in the Agreement with Eire which precludes an increase in this particular duty, the Agreement provides an appropriate remedy in the form of an application for a review of the duty by the Prices Commission. I am prepared to arrange for an early hearing of the case if the industry wish to pursue that course.