HC Deb 03 December 1941 vol 376 cc1147-8W
Mr. Rostron Duckworth

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies when the export tax on tin-ore from Malaya was first imposed; and what is the total amount of revenue which has since accrued from this tax?

Mr. George Hall

Researches in the Colonial Office Library have disclosed the fact that there was a duty of this kind in Selangor in 1877 and in neighbouring States not long after this date, but I am unable to state definitely whether 1877 was the earliest date on which such a duty was imposed. My hon. Friend will appreciate the fact that it would not be possible to compile the information asked for in the second part of his Question without an excessive expenditure of time and labour.

Mr. Burke

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies why the Government of Malaya has requested or ordered the newspapers in British Malaya not to publish the resolution of the Tin Producers' Association of 17th November last, demanding the abolition of the export tax on tin-ore, which resolution was published in the British Press on 18th November?

Mr. Hall

My information is that no such request or order has been issued in Malaya, but I am taking steps to verify this.