HC Deb 09 July 1930 vol 241 cc443-4W
Sir G. JONES

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether any wheat receiving a subsidy, directly or indirectly, was imported into Great Britain during the last five years; and, if so, from what country such wheat was imported and how much came from each country, and the extent and nature of such subsidy?

Mr. W. R. SMITH

I have been asked to reply. Arrangements exist in a number of Continental countries designed to encourage the export of wheat, and a certain amount of wheat which has received the benefit of those arrangements has been imported into this country during the period in question. It is not possible to say how much wheat imported from any particular country has received benefit from these schemes, nor to say to what extent such schemes result in a subsidy. The following is a short summary of certain of the schemes which have been in operation during the period in question:

Germany.—The import bond system was re-introduced in 1925. On the export of wheat the exporter obtains a bond valid for the payment of import duties on certain goods. The value of the bond has varied from time to time, but does not exceed the import duty on a quantity of wheat equivalent to the amount exported.

France.—There is a system under which exporters of wheat may obtain from a special fund a payment of a sum which may not in any case exceed the import duty on a corresponding amount of wheat. The system was introduced in December last, and is in force up to 31st July, 1930.

Austria.—There is an import bond system generally similar to that in force in Germany. Imports of wheat from Austria are negligible.

Poland.—In November, 1929, a system was introduced under which a payment might be made on the export of wheat as a refund of Customs duty paid on manures, auxiliary materials and appliances imported from abroad for the purpose of assisting in the production of wheat, etc. Imports of wheat from Poland are negligible.

Sweden.—In August, 1926, a system somewhat similar to the German system was introduced. This system is to remain in force until 31st July, 1931. Imports of wheat from Sweden are negligible.