asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he can state whether licences to import fibre suit cases free of duty have been given to certain traders while other traders in competition with them have had to pay duty imposed on these articles by the Finance Act?
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Importation of Fibre Suit Cases.
It was not the intention, when the Customs duty was being imposed on cardboard containers, that fibre suit cases should come within the scope of the duty. Subsequently, however, the Revenue Commissioners decided that they had no option but to include these articles as, in their opinion, they came within the scope of the duty. On the matter being brought to my attention I decided that in all the circumstances it would be reasonable to operate a general licensing provision. Since 27th July, 1933, all importations of fibre suit cases have been admitted without payment of duty under licence. As regards importation prior to that date on which duty was paid, I am informed that the Revenue Commissioners will repay such duty on application being made to them.
Is the Minister aware that one application has been made to the Revenue Commissioners for a refund of duty paid on fibre suit cases imported prior to the imposition of the duty and it was refused? Of course, that may have been through an oversight.
I am not aware of that case, but I shall have it inquired into.