§ Mr. FELLasked if the import of motor cars from the United States of America is increasing at a rate that is affecting the sales of the cheaper kind of English-made cars; and whether the American cars are delivered here at cost price or below cost price?
Mr. ROBERTSONThere has been a considerable increase in the importation of motor cars from the United States of America, and no doubt these cars enter into competition with the cheaper descriptions of British-built cars. The average declared value of cars imported from the United States of America during the first nine months of this year was £164, but I have no information showing that 364 this average declared value, which is the wholesale value exclusive of retailers' profits or agents' commission, is less than the American factory cost.
Sir HENRY DALZIELHas the hon. Gentleman made any allowance for the number of cars brought over for private use and taken back again?
Mr. KINGCan the right hon. Gentleman say what is the average life of American and English motor cars?
§ Mr. COOPERIs the hon. Gentleman aware that two and three-quarter times the rate of wages are paid for making these cars in America than is paid in this country?