HC Deb 16 June 1931 vol 253 cc1623-4W
Commander BELLAIRS

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury what was the percentage increase in imports of Empire tobacco over 1913 for a clear year after granting the first preference in 1919 and for the first clear year before the granting of the extended preference in 1925, and for the latest year available?

Mr. PETHICK-LAWRENCE

I think that the following table gives complete information as to the subject in which the hon. and gallant Member is interested, and he will no doubt be able to make such calculations as may be necessary for whatever purpose he has in mind.

Total imports of tobacco from British Empire:

Year. Million lbs.
1913 2.4
1917 4.7
1918 7.9
1919* 16.2
1920 18.8
1921 7.8
1922 12.8
1923 13.1
1924 19.4
1925† 19.2
1926 29.9
1927 41.0
1928 43.2
1929 31.6
1930 35.4
* Preference for Empire tobacco took effect as from 1st September, 1919.
† The preference on Empire tobacco was increased as from 1st July, 1925.