HC Deb 24 October 1945 vol 414 cc1995-6
13. Mr. Turton

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, with a view to improving transport facilities and reducing the cost of transport, he will ask Colonial Governments in Africa to consider the admission of motor-cars and bicycles free of import duty.

Mr. George Hall

The hon. Member will remember that he raised this matter in a supplementary question on the 21st June, 1944, and the matter was then taken up with the Governors of the Colonies concerned. As a result, assurances have been received from the African Colonies that this matter will be borne in mind on the next opportunity of reviewing general taxation. The Gold Coast already admits all motor cars and bicycles, and Sierra Leone admits British motor cars and bicycles, free of duty.

Mr. Turton

Will the Colonial Secretary pursue the encouragement to the Colonial Governors, as it is in the interests both of the Colonies and of our own export trade?

Mr. Hall

It is not, of course, a matter entirely in the hands of the Colonial Secretary; the Colonies themselves must be consulted in taking a decision.

Mr. Evelyn Walkden

But is the right hon. Gentleman not aware that certain firms and industrialists from Birmingham who have settled recently in South Africa are agitating for increased tariffs to keep out British goods?