§ 30. Mr. Stonehouseasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies in view of the fact that the recent Customs and Income Tax changes in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanganyika were not considered by the East African Revenue Advisory Board, as provided by Order in Council, how far the new Regulations will be implemented; and what action he proposes to take to clear the confusion in commercial circles in the three territories in regard to customs changes.
§ Mr. ProfumoIt is for the High Commission in its discretion to refer any such question to the Revenue Advisory Board and decisions of this kind cannot by their nature be the subject of prior public discussion. The recent changes came into effect on 8th May although the Income Tax decisions are effective in the main on incomes arising in 1958 and the new Customs Regulations came into full effect only on the 1st July. I see no cause for the confusion which the hon. Member suggests exists.
§ Mr. StonehouseHas the attention of the hon. Gentleman and his right hon. Friend been drawn to the speech of the Minister of Commerce and Works in Uganda earlier this month, which was reported in the Uganda and Kenya Press and which was to the effect that the Customs changes were illegal? What action has been taken as a result of that speech?
§ Mr. ProfumoNo action has been taken as a result of that speech.