HC Deb 23 January 1945 vol 407 cc640-1
59. Mr. Touche

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that many relatives of Servicemen overseas on receiving parcels labelled Duty Free Concession for Gifts sent to the United Kingdom are being asked to pay Customs duties; and whether he will take steps to clarify the position, which is at present causing misunderstanding and disappointment both to the donors and the recipients of these gifts.

Sir J. Anderson

As I explained on 16th January to the hon. Member for East Stirling (Mr. Woodburn), members of the Forces abroad are now allowed to send home free of import duty and Purchase Tax a limited number of gift parcels of a total value not exceeding £12 in a year. One of the conditions essential to the concession is that each parcel shall be accompanied by a special label—Army Form W.5192—which can be obtained by a Serviceman from his unit. Details of the concession have been circulated to all overseas Commands. If my hon. Friend will let me have particulars of any cases in which duty has been charged on parcels bearing the label and within the terms of the concession, I shall be happy to have inquiries made.

Mr. Touche

Is my right hon. Friend aware that there are such cases, and that I shall be glad to send him particulars?

Sir J. Anderson

I shall be glad to see them.