TNAG-1724-FCO40-2437-Minutes-and-Hansards-of-the-Legislative-Council-of-Hong-Kong-1988 — Page 83

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Clause 3 of the Bill seeks to amend the

schedule to the principal Ordinance which stipulates the

rates of duty payable on various tobacco products. On

the basis that the current level of revenue yield is to

be maintained, a uniform duty rate of $165 per 1 000

local and imported brands

brands is proposed.

cigarettes for

Duties on other tobacco products, that is cigars, smoking

tobacco and Chinese prepared tobacco, will continue to be

levied according to weight.

5.

In the light of my earlier statement and having

regard to the fact that the new duty structure is now in

operation and largely accepted, although as expected,

there have been some mildly critical comments by sectors

of the industry, I propose that the three readings of

this Bill be taken at today's sitting.

6.

Sir, I beg to move.

Motion made. That the debate on the Second Reading of the Bill be adjourned.

proposed,

Question put and agreed to.

Bill read the second time.

Bill committed to a Committee of the whole Council

pursuant

to Manding

Order 43(4).