§ Next, the Committee will recall that last year I acknowledged the strong case for giving relief from the hydrocarbon oil duty in respect of light oils used as raw materials, as solvents or for similar purposes, in industrial processes. As a result of subsequent discussions between the Customs and Excise Department and the industries concerned, a scheme for administering this relief has now been drawn up which can be put into effect from 1st September.
§ This scheme is being extended to cover also heavy oils used as ingredients in the manufacture of other articles. The scheme is expected to give relief from duty to the extent of approximately £10 million in a full year; the cost this year should not exceed £5½ million. It will represent a useful reduction in costs for a number of industries using oil in the manufacture of their products.