HC Deb 11 February 1969 vol 777 cc269-71W
70. Mr. Waddington

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what steps are taken to ensure that goods in respect of which the Commissioners of Customs and Excise remit import deposit under paragraph 3(1)(a) of Schedule 2 to the Customs (Import Deposits) Act, 1968, are in fact re-exported or are incorporated with goods which are exported or are used in the manufacture or production of goods which are exported.

Mr. Harold Lever

The precise steps taken vary according to the circumstances, including the past pattern of trade, evidence of export orders produced, and the local Customs and Excise officer's knowledge of the firm concerned.

If the hon. Member has any particular point in mind, I shall be glad to look into it.

75. Mr. Barnett

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the total amount collected in import deposits at the most recent date for which the information is available.

Mr. Harold Lever

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given on 5th February to the hon. Member for Leicester, South-West (Mr. T. Boardman).

76. Mr. Barnett

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer by how much the total amount collected in import deposits to date falls short of his original estimate; and if he will make a statement on the reasons for the shortfall.

Mr. Harold Lever

It is too soon to judge whether amounts collected in import deposits will fall significantly short of the order of magnitude given in my right hon. Friend's statement on 22nd November.

Mr. Waddington

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer under what arrangements the Commissioners of Customs and Excise remit the import deposit to an importer who can show that he has only a reasonable expectation that goods which he is importing will be used in other goods intended for export.

Mr. Harold Lever

Where there is a reasonably consistent past pattern of export trade, remission of import deposit is allowed on the appropriate proportion of importation. Where there is no such pattern, and remission for a particular importation is sought, the local Customs officer has to be satisfied that, as far as can be foreseen the exportation will take place. If he is not satisfied, the deposit must be paid; it is refunded at the expiry of 180 days or upon re-exportation of the goods, if that is earlier.

Mr. Barnett

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what he now estimates will be the total amount collected in import deposits.

Mr. Harold Lever

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given on 27th January to the hon. Member for Blackpool, South (Mr. Blaker).

Mr. Barnett

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the total amount of import deposits to date paid in foreign currency.

Mr. Harold Lever

None. All payments of deposit are made in sterling.