I move that the Bill be now read a Second Time. This is a Bill dealing with an increased duty on felt hats and caps for men and boys. The purpose of the Bill is to implement the Emergency Imposition of Duties Order, 1947, which increased the customs duty on felt hats and caps from the duty effected under the Imposition of Duties Act, 1932, to a 75 per cent. ad valorem (United Kingdom and Canada preference rate, 50 per cent.), with a minimum duty of 5/7½ per article (United Kingdom and Canada preference, 3/9 per article). For many years prior to 1939 there had been in existence a customs duty on such hats at the flat rate of 25 per cent. ad valorem. At the moment the duty is 3/9½, with the full rate 50 per cent. higher in each case. As it is necessary, Sir, to get this Bill through before the 24th of this month, I propose asking the House to be good enough to allow me to take all stages to-day, as otherwise the Bill will fall through.
Imposition of Duties (Confirmation of Order) Bill, 1948—Second and Subsequent Stages.
Question put and agreed to.
Bill passed through Committee, reported without amendment, received for final consideration, and passed.
This Bill is certified a Money Bill in accordance with Article 22 of the Constitution.