HC Deb 02 May 1935 vol 301 cc543-4
64. Mr. COCKS

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will state the number of aeroplane engines exported from this country to Germany in the year 1934 and the first three months of 1935?

The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Runciman)

The number of aeroplane engines of United Kingdom manufacture exported during the year 1934 and registered as consigned to Germany was 96. No such exports were registered as consigned to Germany during the first three months of 1935.

Mr. COCKS

In view of the illegal arming of Germany, will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to stop the exportation of any more of these aeroplane engines, and is he aware of the great feeling that is growing up in this country against this treasonable traffic?

Sir PERCY HARRIS

Have the exporters of these machines to have a licence in the same way as they have to have a licence for war materials?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

Licences are not required for aeroplane engines.

Mr. PERKINS

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether any of these engines are used for military aircraft as a rule?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I am afraid that it is impossible for us to say.

Mr. T. WILLIAMS

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the Board of Trade encourage or discourage the exportation of aeroplane engines to Germany?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

We have no reason to suppose that engines manufactured for civil aeroplanes are not fit and proper subjects for export.

Mr. COCKS

Will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to stop the further exportation of these machines?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

No.