§ Sir R. GOWERasked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he is aware that foreign musicians on entering this country to carry out engagements are permitted to import musical instruments which in many cases they sell here without paying import duty thereon; and 430W whether he will consider the desirability of imposing a deposit duty on instruments so entering this country?
Mr. SAMUELAs regards the first part of the question, the position is that a deposit of duty is required in respect of all musical instruments brought into this country by foreign musicians for temporary professional use except in the case of used portable musical instruments, which are delivered without deposit of duty on receipt by the Customs Officer of a satisfactory declaration in writing by the owner that the article has been in his possession and use abroad for not less than one year and that it, is not intended for other persons or for sale. As regards the second part of the question, if my hon. Friend can supply me with definite information as to the abuse of the concession I will look into the matter.