§ 58. Mr. W. Fletcherasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in the interests of increased reciprocal trade between this country and Brazil, he will approach the Brazilian Government 752 for a reduction of the high fees charged for consular invoices and for the restrictions caused by the interpretations placed upon such invoices by Brazilian consular officials.
§ Mr. MayhewNo, Sir, for these fees are not abnormally high compared with those charged in some other countries. If the hon. Member will let me have any particulars of unusual restrictions, I will be glad to look into the matter.
§ Mr. FletcherIs not the hon. Gentleman aware that not only are the fees among the highest charged, but that penal fines are imposed on people who inadvertently transgress, and that this is really impeding trade between the two countries, which we wish to foster? Will he make representation to the Brazilian Government on this matter?
§ Mr. MayhewThe Question is about fees. If the hon. Gentleman will put down a question about fines, I will look into it.