HC Deb 06 March 1947 vol 434 cc813-4

Lords Amendment: In page 16, line 39, at the end, insert: (3) Where the Commissioners of Customs and Excise are not satisfied in the case of any goods as to the matters specified in paragraph (b) of the said subsection (1), they shall give their reasons to the person making entry of the goods for export and shall take into consideration any representations made by him.

12.7 a.m.

The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Mr. Glenvil Hall)

I beg to move, "That this House doth agree with the Lords in the said Amendment."

This Clause, as the House may remember, deals with payment for exports, and this Amendment gives to exporters the right, where Customs and Excise have queried the information given on Form C.D.3, to be told what they consider wrong and to have a chance of stating his case. This point was raised in another place. The present custom is for Customs and Excise to do as is suggested in the Amendment, and we see no reason why it should not be accepted. I hope the House will accept it.

Mr. Assheton (City of London)

I am glad the Financial Secretary feels able to recommend to the House the acceptance of this Amendment. I think it is very right and proper that the present practice of the Customs and Excise should be made obligatory in this case.