§ Mr. T. Smithasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is satisfied that the retail price of tobacco in its various forms has been increased strictly in accordance with the increase in the tobacco duties?
§ Sir J. SimonIt would involve an elaborate investigation, which I am not prepared to undertake, to ascertain even in the majority of cases whether the retail prices of tobacco have been increased strictly in accordance with the increase in the tobacco duties. I have no reason to doubt, however, that when the trade has had time to adjust itself fully to the new duties competition will ensure that the consumer is not unfairly treated.