HC Deb 01 August 1939 vol 350 cc2163-4
59. Sir H. Williams

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is prepared to consider a revision of the methods of valuation for the purpose of Customs duties in order to ensure that subsidised and dumped goods should re main liable to the same duty which they would pay had they been sold at normal prices?

Sir J. Simon

It is open to the interests concerned to make representations to the Import Duties Advisory Committee in regard to the competition of foreign goods on the British market from whatever cause it arises. I do not consider that any further provision is necessary at present.

Sir H. Williams

Would my right hon. Friend consider the difficulty arising from the fact that subsidised goods may come from only one country and they have to be treated in exactly the same way as non-subsidised goods from other countries, and that this is a position with which the Import Duties Advisory Committee cannot deal?

Mr. Reed

Is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that these dock goods in some cases come from countries with which we have trade agreements, and therefore nothing whatever can be done through the Import Duties Advisory Committee; and will he further consider this question?

Sir J. Simon

I am not sure that this matter is not one for my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade, rather than for me, but I will take note of the observations which have been made by the hon. Members and will see that they are considered.