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Wednesday, 13 December 1911

Mr THOMAS BROWN (Calare) . - I understand that fully half the imports for 1 9 10 under this item were in the special lines which have been selected by the Minister for increased duties. On these imports the duty under the old Tariff worked out at about 50 per cent, ad valorem, while the new proposals practically increase the protection on them to 75 per cent. That is a very heavy charge on fruits and vegetables, preserved and imported, and mostly used out back, where the-people are unable to secure fresh vegetables.

Mr Tudor - I assure the honorable member that the duty is not anything like 50 per cent. Last year ,£157,000 worth was imported, and the duty paid was £11,000, which works out at about 8 per cent.

Mr THOMAS BROWN - I have been told that on special lines the duty under the old Tariff is 50 per cent., and that it will be much higher under this schedule.

Mr BRUCE SMITH (PARKES, NEW SOUTH WALES) - There is an increase of 50 per cent, on the rate of duty, but not on the cost price of the article. The duty is not more than 11 per cent.

Mr W H IRVINE (FLINDERS, VICTORIA) - It will not hurt any one.

Mr THOMAS BROWN - It seems to me an unreasonable rate, and it will substantially increase the price to the pioneers, !who are compelled to use preserved fruits and vegetables.

Amendment (by Mr. Tudor) agreed to -

Amendment, as amended, agreed to.

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