THE DUTY ON OARS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXXIV, Issue 10595, 9 November 1897, Page 5

THE DUTY ON OARS.

[by telegraph.— press ASSOCIATION",] Wellington, Monday. The secretary of the New Zealand Amateur Rowing Association is in receipt of a letter from tho secretary of Customs stating that tho Government is unable to remit the duty on oars for racing boats, as this course would not bo in accordance with the tariff. The letter goes on to state that' an application from a boab builder for admission free of fittings for racing boats was received some time ago, and after due consideration vulcanite seat rollers wore declared free under the discretionary. power given to the .Commissioner in the tariff, in such cases. This course could not' be pursued in the case of timber for making oars, as this is an article of general use on which the Legislature. has placed a duty, and it would not be within the discretionary power of the Commissioner to practically amend the express provision of the Legislature, in its application to one specific industry. Effect could not, therefore, be given to the wishes of the, New Zealand Amateur Rowing Association without an alteration in the tariff.' There is no present intention of dealing with the tariff, but in the event of such arising the Association's representations will be considered.