J).— No. 12

4

REPORT ON CUSTOMS TARIEE.

previous rates ; especially in the case of Ironmongery, where the duty is comparatively moderate, ana in present circumstances the reduction would be a gratuitous loss to the revenue ; and although they recommend the duties on Fencing Materials, Holloware, and other Ironmongery to be retained instead of admitting them duty free, they are of opinion that it would be still better to impose an ad valorem duty on such goods, and as provided in next clause of this report. Fencing Materials ... 20s. per ton, instead of Free as proposed. Holloware ... 4s. per cwt., ~ „ Coppcrwaro ... 4s. per cwt., ~ „ Nails, &o, &c. ... 4s. per cwt., ~ „ Papier Mache ... Is. per ft., ~ „ Liquorice... ... 2s. 6d. per ft., „ „ Alum ... ... 3s; per ft., „ ~ Arsenic ... ... 4s. per cwt., ~ ~ Pitch and Tar ... Is. per barrel „ ~ 8. The Chamber recommends that instead of the present duties, an ad valorem duty should be levied on the following descriptions of goods, as they think a larger and more equitable taxation would be obtained thereby. The goods referred to vary exceedingly in quality and price, and it is impossible under any other system to raise duties fairly on them. Soft Goods of all descriptions. Prints and Painting. Saddlery and Harness. Earthenware. Fencing Materials. Chinaware. Holloware. Mantelpieces. Tinware. Paperhangings. All descriptions of Ironmongery. Boots and Shoes. Firearms and Swords. Vamps and Uppers.