HC Deb 02 December 1947 vol 445 cc204-5
71. Mr. Sidney Shephard

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that there is a total prohibition against the importation of British hosiery into many countries; and what action is he taking to enable this trade to achieve its export target for 1948.

Mr. Belcher

I am aware that restrictions have been imposed by certain countries on the importation of hosiery from the United Kingdom. Negotiations are proceeding with a number of countries to secure a modification of their licensing systems to permit expansion of our exports.

Mr. Shephard

When shall we know the results of these negotiations that are taking place?

Mr. Belcher

As soon as it is possible to let the hon. Gentleman know.

Mr. Shephard

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that there is widespread anxiety not only in this trade but in many other trades, and that producers are most anxious to fulfil their export targets and cannot do so because of these closed markets? That is his responsibility.

Mr. Belcher

Of course, I am aware of the anxiety, which is not confined to the trades. His Majesty's Government share the anxiety. But this is a matter of bilateral negotiations, and however much we may desire to reach an agreement, it depends on the willingness of the other party to the negotiations as to when agreement will be reached. As soon as agreement is reached, we shall let the House know.

72. Mr. S. Shephard

asked the President of the Board of Trade which hard currency countries are closed to the importation of British textiles.

Mr. Belcher

Of the principal countries to whom we are particularly desirous of increasing our exports, only Argentina is operating restrictions which result in almost complete exclusion of British textiles.

Mr. Shephard

Are there other hard currency countries which have a partial ban on British textiles; and if so, will the hon. Gentleman say which they are?

Mr. Belcher

I can say that of the so-called hard currency countries—although it is very difficult to define exactly what is a hard currency country—in the United States there are no restrictions; in Canada there is a quota of 400 per cent. of the average imports of the immediate prewar years; we are about to conclude negotiations with Sweden; Argentina I have already announced; and in Switzerland and Portugal there are no restrictions at all.

Mr. Osborne

Unless these restrictions are taken away, does the Parliamentary Secretary think it is fair to ask the hosiery trade to complete its great export target which his Department set it?

Mr. Belcher

I think it is fair to ask the hosiery trade to reach its target, and I think it is fair for the hosiery trade to ask His Majesty's Government to do all they can to assist.

Sir W. Smithers

Is not the Parliamentary Secretary aware that the difficulties referred to in this and the previous Question are due to Government interference, and their not allowing ordinary traders to continue with their own businesses?

Mr. Speaker

The hon. Member is now making allegation, and not asking a question for information.