§ 53. Mr. Fernyhoughasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer why the Newcastle-on-Tyne Customs charge duty to the amount of 3s. 9d. for one pair of nylon stockings brought home by sailors; and whether he will consider granting the men concerned the privilege of bringing in one pair duty-free.
§ Sir S. CrippsForeign-manufactured nylon stockings are liable to both duty and Purchase Tax on their value. I see no reason to question the correctness of a charge of 3s. 9d. on one pair. To grant sailors the privilege of importing without charge articles obviously not for their personal use would be a new departure for which I can see no justification.
§ Mr. FernyhoughIs not my right hon. and learned Friend aware that this would add to domestic bliss? Is he also aware that at some ports sailors are allowed to bring in one pair from abroad and also that citizens of this country can send to Gibraltar for one pair of nylons free of tax? Why cannot this be permitted for sailors?
§ Sir S. CrippsIf my hon. Friend will let me know the ports where these articles are allowed in free of tax I will look into it.