HC Deb 24 February 1916 vol 80 cc801-2
16. Mr. GEORGE GREENWOOD

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, with the view of preventing the importation of luxuries, he will take steps to prohibit the importation of plumage, with the exception of ostrich feathers?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I can add nothing at present to the replies I gave yesterday to the questions addressed to me by the hon. Members for East Edinburgh and the St. Augustine's Division of Kent.

Mr. GREENWOOD

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this trade is mainly in the hands of persons of German name and nationality?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

Yes, Sir, that may be; but the only object the Board of Trade have had in restricting imports has been to provide tonnage space. I am not aware that aigrettes occupy a very large amount of space.