§ MR. J. DEVLINTo ask the President of the Board of Trade whether he has received representations from the Belfast Chamber of Commerce in favour of the separate classification in the official Returns of Irish imports and exports, not only in regard to foreign countries but also in regard to England and Scotland; and whether he has come to any decision in the matter.
(Answered by Mr. Churchill.) The only representations on the subject received from the Belfast Chamber were addressed to the Departmental Committee which is now sitting to consider how far any change is desirable in the form in which the Trade Accounts of the United Kingdom are published as regards the countries from which imports are received and to which exports are sent. I understand, however, that the Committee are of opinion that this matter does not fall within their terms of reference. I will give careful consideration to any views which the Belfast Chamber may lay before me, but, as the hon. Member is probably aware, the question bristles with difficulties and could not be dealt with without legislation.