Sir W. JOYNSON HICKSasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether American and other foreign commercial motor cars are being imported into this country in large numbers although some of the English makers have been obliged to close down for lack of orders; whether such English manufacturers were not in the same position during the War as the manufacturers of light cars; and why the latter type should have a protection of 33 per cent, and the heavy vehicles none?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINThe duty on motor cars was imposed in 1915 and has since been continued unchanged. The then Chancellor of the Exchequer, Mr. McKenna, at first intended to include all cars in the scope of the duty, but in deference to views expressed in this House he exempted commercial cars.
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that 4,593 commercial motor cars and 17,528 passenger cars were imported from the United States of America in the year ending June last of the approximate value of 27,000,000 dollars; and whether, with a view of helping the exchange rate, he can take steps to mitigate such importation?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINI understand that the figures given in the question are quoted from United States official statistics, and are substantially confirmed by our own figure of imports. I have no power to prohibit or restrict importation, but it may be some satisfaction to my hon. Friend to know that the importation, though adverse to the Exchange, has been most favourable to the Revenue.