HC Deb 11 December 1935 vol 307 cc931-2W
Major CARVER

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he is aware of the competition of Dutch and Belgian grape-growers which is killing the home trade for grapes; and whether the duty imposed during the summer months can be continued until January in the interests of those employed in the trade?

Mr. ELLIOT

Imports of grapes from Belgium and the Netherlands since the imposition of Customs duties in 1932 have fallen to between 40 and 45 per cent. of imports from those countries in 1931. The bulk of these imports consist of hothouse grapes, upon which there is a duty throughout the year of 3d. per lb. Any alteration in the duty is a matter for consideration by the Import Duties Advisory Committee, and it is open to the trade interests concerned to submit an application to that Committee, if they consider that an increase in the duty would be justified.