HC Deb 24 July 1951 vol 491 c29W
71. Lieut.-Colonel Hyde

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury why, on or about 1st June, 1951, Mrs. T. Hillen, 13, Pernau Street, Belfast, was charged Customs duty amounting to 15s. and Purchase Tax amounting to £2 3s. 4d. on a cheap gift souvenir, the declared cost of which was 4s. 6d., sent to her through the post by her son A.B. J. Murray, serving on H.M.S. "Amethyst" in the Far East; and whether, in the circumstances, he will remit these charges.

Mr. Jay

This souvenir was an ivory model of a rickshaw and coolie. It was appraised by an expert at an import value of 50s. and the charges were calculated on this figure. If the hon. and gallant Member considers this value too high, the Customs will arrange for an independent re-appraisal; but otherwise I could not remit or reduce the charges made.