HC Deb 19 February 1948 vol 447 cc1335-6
57. Mr. Janner

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what undertakings were given to the organisers of the special Christmas parcels scheme in East Africa on waiving the clearance fee in connection with these parcels sent by air; whether he is aware that the fee was in fact charged in all cases; and whether he can make an official statement on the matter in order to clear up any misunderstanding.

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

I understand that the carriage of these parcels was only prepaid to the airport of arrival; the forwarding agent employed made, as usual, a charge for clearance and delivery. There was no charge, nor any delay, on the part of the Customs and no undertaking has been disregarded.

Mr. Janner

Will the right hon. Gentleman say how it is that this misunderstanding on the part of the people of East Africa has arisen and why so many people there misunderstood the position and are today complaining bitterly about the way they were treated?

Mr. Glenvil Hall

I cannot help it if people misunderstand what has been arranged. So far as my Department are concerned, there was no misunderstanding and we made no charge whatever.