HC Deb 25 February 1969 vol 778 c1265
25. Mr. Silvester

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what decision he has made concerning the exclusion of briar-wood ebauchons from the operation of the Import Deposit Scheme; and what are the reasons for his decision.

The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Mr. Harold Lever)

The Government are now prepared to add briar root blocks, for pipe manufacture, to the list of exemptions from the import deposit; the necessary Treasury Order will be laid as soon as possible. This is an exceptional case in many of its aspects and I hope it will not arouse unjustified hopes of further concessions.

Mr. Silvester

I thank the hon. Gentleman for that reply, and I promise not to bring any more forward personally, though I cannot vouch for my hon. Friends.