Goods Imported into India.

HC Deb 30 November 1911 vol 32 cc578-9

Major ARCHER-SHEE

asked the value of goods imported into India from the United Kingdom and Germany, respectively, during the last year for which statistics are available?

Mr. BUXTON

The total value of merchandise (including Government stores) imported into British India from the United Kingdom in the year ended March 31st, 1911, was £55,458,000, the corresponding imports from Germany being £3,438,000.

Major ARCHER-SHEE

Is it not the fact there is no distinction in the returns between the country of origin and shipment, and that therefore a large quantity of German goods which are exported from British ports are wrongly described as British goods in India?

Mr. BUXTON

Perhaps the hon. Member will give me notice of that question.

Major ARCHER-SHEE

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will consider the advisability of appointing Trade Commissioners for India?

Mr. BUXTON

I shall be glad to consider any information in the possession of the hon. Member tending to show the advisability of such an appointment; and would, if necessary, take the advice of the Advisory Committee on Commercial Intelligence and of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for India on the subject.