HC Deb 08 March 1956 vol 549 cc2301-2
32. Mr. Chichester-Clark

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that manufacturers of boots and shoes in Eire are permitted to send these into the United Kingdom under licence, which is freely granted, and that United Kingdom merchants are only permitted to sell boots and shoes in Eire under quota, which is strictly limited; and what discussions he has had with the Irish Republican Government on the subject.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

Yes, Sir. Representations were made to the Irish Republic last year, and the quota for leather footwear is now three times what it was.

33 and 34. Mr. Chichester-Clark

asked the President of the Board of Trade (1) whether he is aware that, while furniture imported from the Irish Republic is duty free, subject to Purchase Tax, the Irish Republic levy a duty of 50 per cent. on furniture exported from the United Kingdom; and whether he will make representations to the Irish Republican Government on the subject;

(2) whether he is aware that the Eireann Government impose a duty of 56s. per hundredweight, plus a package duty of Id. per pound on packages under seven pounds gross on United Kingdom exports of sugar confectionery; and, since imports from Eire are subject only to a duty of 4s. 9d, per hundredweight of sugar content, if he will make representations to the Eireann Government with a view to achieving reciprocity.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

I am aware of these facts. If the United Kingdom industries concerned consider that they are not enjoying an opportunity of reasonable competition in the Irish Republic it is open to them, under the provisions of the Trade Agreement of 1938, to ask for a review of the duties.

Mr. Chichester-Clark

While I appreciate what my right hon. Friend has said and hope that industry will take note of it, may I ask him to look at the whole position again in the light of the effect that it must have upon Northern Ireland, where there is still considerable unemployment?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I have received a request from the Northern Ireland Government to examine this duty position as it affects Ulster industry, including furniture. I am examining it at the present time.