HC Deb 02 May 1949 vol 464 cc41-2W
Mr. Sharp

asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations whether the proceeds of the 20 per cent. export tax on tobacco imposed by the Southern Rhodesian Government have been allocated for any particular purpose; and whether the tax has been levied to discourage exports.

Mr. P. Noel-Baker

The Government of Southern Rhodesia published on 15th April new proposals to take the place of the 20 per cent.ad valorem export duty on tobacco which had been announced on 18th March. These new proposals, to which it is understood tobacco growers in Southern Rhodesia have agreed, provide for a compulsory saving scheme under which 15 per cent. of the proceeds of sale will be taken as a loan subject to certain abatements on gross sales of up to £4,500.