Earl of Dalkeithasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs whether he will consult the Government of Australia with a view to securing a temporary relaxation of import duty on 122W the gifts of essential goods sent by residents of the United Kingdom to relatives and friends in Tasmania, following the losses and suffering caused to them by the recent fires.
§ Mr. George ThomasHer Majesty's Government have the utmost sympathy for all in Tasmania who have suffered from the recent fires, but any relaxation of import duties is entirely a matter for the Australian Government. I do not therefore consider that consultations with the Australian Government would be appropriate.