§ 57. Mr. Stourtonasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if his attention has been drawn to the wholesale smuggling of dutiable merchandise by air from France and the Low Countries; and whether in a recent case where 1,000 bottles of champagne were discovered in the vicinity of Manor Road, Chelmsford, those responsible have been apprehended and brought to trial.
§ Sir J. AndersonI am aware that there are indications that some smuggling is taking place in the manner described in the first part of the Question, and I may say that all possible counter-measures are being taken. With regard to the second part, the case is being appropriately dealt with.
§ Mr. StourtonWill my right hon. Friend bear in mind the fact that unless energetic counter-measures are taken this latest form of "black-marketeering" will become an epidemic?
§ Sir J. AndersonI am well aware that the matter wants very careful consideration.
§ Mr. StourtonCan my right hon. Friend state the location of the 1,000 bottles of champagne at the present time?