From the Rolls-Royce experimental archive: a quarter of a million communications from Rolls-Royce, 1906 to 1960's. Documents from the Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation (SHRMF).
Letter regarding customs clearance for a General Motors diesel engine and the required declaration of use.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 133\3\ scan0023 | |
| Date | 5th January 1939 | |
| 1128 Wd.{Mr Wood/Mr Whitehead} Rm.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer} Hs{Lord Ernest Hives - Chair}/LS. D/BP18/MW.5.1.39. Re: Diesel Engine from General Motors Corporation, Cleveland, Ohio. Wd{Mr Wood/Mr Whitehead}2/RS.{Sir Henry Royce's Secretary}5.1.39. Rm{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}3/R.4.11.38. We regret that we cannot clear the engine through the Customs at Liverpool without giving a very clear declaration in regard to its use. We have endeavoured to act on the information you have given, but we are informed that we have to give a declaration signed by a Director of the Company, or the Secretary, to the effect that this engine cannot and will not be used in a Motor Car. In addition we must declare the purpose for which the engine is being imported, i.e. for aircraft work or marine work, and that it will only be used for that class of work. If there is any doubt about this matter then it is better to pay the full rate of 33 and 1/3rd. per cent duty rather than face an enquiry later on which might lead us into difficulties. Will you please say if such a declaration as referred to herein, can be made under the signature of an official of this company. D/BP | ||