§ 43. Mr. Shepherdasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether this country will follow the lead given by other European nations in dropping the requirement of the carnet in respect of visitors bringing their cars here.
§ Mr. PowellNo, Sir; we have a much higher revenue interest and a large home 1418 industry to protect; but further simplification of the system is being examined.
§ Mr. ShepherdIs it not a fact that one of the countries which have granted the concession has an industry as large as ours? Why should we be regarded as the most sticky and stodgy of all nations in Europe in these matters? Would it not be to our economic advantage to give this facility to encourage tourists who wish to bring their cars to this country?
§ Mr. PowellA very good deal is also at stake in revenue and protection—more than in the case of the country which my hon. Friend has in mind.
§ 44. Mr. Shepherdasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer why an accompanied motor car has to be examined separately by landing officers and waterguard officers; and what consideration has been given to altering the regulations to simplify the procedure at ports.
§ Mr. PowellA recent review has established that the balance of advantage is against altering the present system, whereby the landing officer assesses duty on imported cars and the waterguard officer is responsible for the prevention of smuggling.