HC Deb 16 June 1955 vol 542 c745
28. Mr. G. Jeger

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that watches presented to players of a London Association Football team by Basle City Federation were confiscated by Customs officials at London Airport; and whether he will waive the duty in this case so that the team may receive their souvenir gifts.

Mr. H. Brooke

Souvenir gifts are not exempt from Customs duty, and these watches were held in Customs charge pending appeal; they were not confiscated. I now understand that the watches were formally presented on a public occasion commemorating the friendly relations between the cities of London and Basle, and in these special circumstances I have agreed to waive payment of duty.

Mr. Jeger

Might I, on behalf of the London Football Association, express thanks to the Treasury for that gesture? Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that that gesture has done far more for international friendship than sending the Foreign Secretary off on conferences?