§ 70. Mr. George Jegerasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that, during the recent dock strike, firms which imported goods and materials by air were charged Customs Duty on the increased freight costs; and whether he will arrange that, where emergency action is taken by firms, they are not penalised by an increased Customs charge of 150 per cent.
§ Mr. Harold LeverThe charge of duty is made in accordance with the law and I am satisfied that no change is called for.
§ 74. Mr. Croninasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is his policy with regard to the waiving of duty on chemicals, unobtainable in this country and imported from abroad by universities for research and teaching; and if he will take steps to simplify the customs formalities for the import of such chemicals.
§ Mr. Harold LeverDuty is waived where the Treasury are satisfied, on the recommendation of the Board of Trade, that the chemicals are intended for use non-commercially in scientific research, or in the advancement of any branch of learning, and that it is expedient that the duty should not be charged. The Customs formalities are already simple, but are kept under close review to see if further simplifications are possible.