HC Deb 05 December 1911 vol 32 cc1226-7
Mr. CROFT

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will give the figures for the average value of British and German imports into Egypt during the periods 1895 to 1900, 1900 to 1905, and 1905 to 1910, and the percentage comparison of British and German imports into Egypt during those years?

Mr. ROBERTSON

For the periods of five years ended 1900,1905, and 1910, the average annual values of the imports into Egypt from the United Kingdom have been £4,125,000, £6,338,000, and £7,935,000 respectively, being 35, 35, and 32 per cent. of the Egyptian imports during each period. The corresponding figures of imports from Germany have been £356,000, £784,000, and £1,274,000, being 3, 4, and 5 per cent. respectively of the Egyptian imports.

Mr. CROFT

Will the hon. Gentleman consider the necessity of appointing further Trade Commissioners or agents in Egypt, bearing in mind that there is a large increase in German trade as compared with British trade?

Mr. ROBERTSON

The increase in imports from Great Britain in the last five years is considerably greater than the total amount of the German increase.