HC Deb 12 July 1955 vol 543 cc1721-2
7. Mr. Holt

asked the President of the Board of Trade what representations he has recently received to remove the 15 per cent. import duty on wooden reels imported from Finland for use in the cotton trade; and what action he intends to take.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

I assume that the hon. Member is referring to wooden sewing thread reels, on which the duty is 5 per cent. ad valorem. It is, of course, always open to makers or users to apply for a reduction in duty. I have recently received representations from one firm, which has been informed of the procedures to be followed.

Mr. Holt

Am Ito understand from the Minister's answer that he will not consider individual applications, and that they must be made through a trade association?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I did not say so. I said that there is a proper procedure for applying in these cases, and this person who has written to me has been informed of that procedure.