§ MR. J. BRIGG (York, W.R., Keighley)I beg to ask the Under Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, whether, in view of the frequent statements made in the Reports on Trade and Commerce that, in foreign, countries. British textiles and iron wares are being superseded by the manufactures of Germany, France, and Belgium, he will, in his instructions to the Consuls, impress upon them the desirability of their giving increased attention to these facts, and of their forwarding more frequently for the; use of Chambers of Commerce samples or descriptions and prices of articles which are believed to be taking the place of the products of this country?
§ THE UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Mr. GEORGE CURZON,) Lancashire, SouthportThe instructions already issued to Her Majesty's Consular Representatives abroad contain very specific directions concerning the competition of foreign trades and the forwarding of samples. In accordance therewith samples have been received from a large number of places, and have been communicated to the Chambers of Commerce. Inasmuch, however, as the matter is one of considerable importance, I propose to issue a reminder to the Consuls of their duties in this respect.
§ MR. BRIGGasked if it would be possible to supply Chambers of Commerce with copies of the instructions.
§ MR. CURZONsaid he would be happy to communicate a copy of the instructions to the hon. Gentleman if he desired it.