HC Deb 07 March 1910 vol 14 cc1282-3W
Mr. F. E. SMITH

asked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he will make representations to the Legislative Council of India to reduce the proposed duties on importations of tobacco and cigarettes; and whether he is aware that if the proposed duties come into force they will result in several hundreds of workpeople in Liverpool and Bristol being thrown out of employment, with the consequent hardships, and will inflict considerable losses upon British manufacturers?

Mr. MONTAGU

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer that I gave this afternoon to the hon. Member for South Bristol.

Mr. M'ARTHUR

asked the Under-Secretary for India whether he will represent to the Government of India the loss of trade and employment in the United Kingdom which would be caused by the proposed increase in the duties on tobacco and cigarettes imported into India, and urge the expediency of a reconsideration of the said increase?

Mr. MONTAGU

I would refer the hon. Member to the answer that I gave this afternoon to the hon. Member for South Bristol.