Sulphate of Ammonia

HC Deb 28 January 1958 vol 581 cc181-2

10. Mr. Willey

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will review the customs duty on imported sulphate of ammonia.

Sir D. Eccles

As I told the hon. Member in reply to a similar Question on 25th July last, if an application is made by users for the removal or alteration of this duty, I will consider it. No application has been received.

Mr. Wiley

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that, unfortunately, the National Farmers' Union has not a fertilisers committee and is not directly interested because farmers receive subsidised fertilisers? What I am concerned about is the expense to the taxpayer. Surely, the fact that no imports are coming in arises because the rate of tariff is too high. Will he look into this again on my representation?

Sir D. Eccles

My information is that the United Kingdom manufacturers' home prices are broadly comparable with prices ruling in other countries. There does not appear to be much prospect for importing.