asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury what instructions have been given to His Majesty's Customs and Excise regarding the use of private wharves for the shipment of goods for export.

No such instructions have been given to Customs and Excise officials, but under the Customs Acts goods for export can only be shipped at places approved for the purpose by the Commissioners of Customs and Excise.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury if he is aware that the use of a private wharf in Hull, of which he has been informed, has been restricted for the shipment of goods for export; and if he will make a statement.

I understand that the Old Forge Wharf, Hull, is not approved by the Customs for the shipment of goods abroad, although the shipment of certain descriptions of iron and steel has been allowed exceptionally as suitable facilities for these goods were not available elsewhere in the port. Permission for the shipment of other goods cannot be granted, because there are already adequate facilities at Hull for such goods.