HC Deb 14 September 1914 vol 66 c755
3. Mr. WILLIAM THORNE

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the employment of some 8,000 British workers is in immediate danger of ceasing in consequence of the Press campaign that is being carried on against British companies manufacturing in this country, employing British labour but who have German or Austrian shareholders; and if the Government will take steps in the interests of these workmen, many of whom belong to trade union associations, to make the position clear to the general public and issue a statement to that effect on similar lines as the Proclamation issued by the Treasury on 21st August?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Robertson)

I would refer my hon. Friend to the terms of the Trading with the Enemy Proclamation No. 2, from which it is clear that a company incorporated in this country is entitled to carry on its legitimate business in this country not withstanding that it may have German or Austrian shareholders.