§ 31. Mr. Swinglerasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if the Customs Department of the Seychelles now possesses the correct type of hydrometer and conversion tables for estimating the alcoholic percentage of rum and wines.
§ Mr. SwinglerHas the Minister of State made inquiries into why the Customs Department of the Seychelles did not possess the proper instruments for a period of four years, so that £89,000 was lost in revenue? Will he say who was responsible for this state of affairs, which has been admitted by his right hon. Friend, and whether disciplinary action has been taken?
§ Mr. HareI think the hon. Gentleman's facts are not quite right. As I understand it, in January, 1955, it was found that the old hydrometers had become inaccurate and steps were taken to replace them. Unfortunately, owing to delays in this country, the manufacturers were not able to supply new hydrometers until October of that year.
§ Mr. SwinglerIs not the right hon. Gentleman aware that his right hon. Friend has had to write off a sum of £89,000 which was not collected in Customs duties in the Seychelles owing to the lack of proper equipment? Surely some action should have been taken against those responsible?
§ Mr. HareI can assure the hon. Gentleman that, if he is asked, my right hon. Friend will deal with that matter in the debate. It is not part of this Question.