HC Deb 23 March 1948 vol 448 c2767
50. Mr. Skeffington-Lodge

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the administrative cost of the Customs frontier of 278 miles between the United Kingdom and Eire.

Sir S. Cripps

For the year ended 31st March, 1947, the cost of Customs services on the land boundary of Northern Ireland was approximately £103,000.

Mr. Mulvey

Would the Chancellor cause inquiries to be made with a view to ascertaining the amount realised on stock seized by Customs officials in Northern Ireland, so as to compare it with the amount spent?

Sir S. Cripps

Certainly.

Sir Ronald Ross

Does not the right hon. and learned Gentleman recollect that before the Irish Free State, as it then was, raised a tariff barrier against British goods, none of this expense was incurred.

Sir S. Cripps

Yes, Sir.