§ Mr. ParryTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will list in theOfficial Report the representations he has received concerning the proposed abolition of duty free shopping in the single European market; what replies he has sent; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. Gillian Shephard[holding answer 25 April 1991]: In the past 15 months, Treasury Ministers have replied to over 100 letters and several parliamentary questions and have held six meetings with representative trade bodies, including two with the Duty-Free Confederation.
Although no specific proposals have been put forward, the European Commission has made clear its view that, as a consequence of the completion of the single market, duty-free shopping for travellers within the Community should cease.
The Government understand the Commission's view, but equally are aware of the significance of the duty-free trade for United Kingdom producers, vendors and the transport industry in general. We are examining very carefully all the evidence put to us in representations, and hope to be able to announce our view shortly.