HC Deb 12 October 1939 vol 352 cc554-5W
Mr. A. Edwards

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will consider the advisability of suspending all duties on imports for the duration of the war in order to keep costs as low as possible and encourage exports; and whether he will convey to the House at an early date his conclusions in this matter?

Sir J. Simon

I am afraid I could not contemplate the loss of revenue that would be entailed if the hon. Member's suggestion were adopted. Moreover, indiscriminate importation at this time is far from being desirable.