§ 40. Mr. WATTasked the hon. Member for Oswestry, as representing the War Trade Department, whether the export of cotton licences come wholly under his Department or whether the work is shared with some other Department; if the latter, can he say whether this is one of the causes of the delays in granting such licences; and will he see that his Department, having the responsibility, will in future do all the work?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMAN (representing the War Trade Department)The export of cotton is controlled by the Cotton Exports Committee appointed by the Board of Trade, and they advise the "War Trade Department as to whether licences should be granted or withheld. The position of the Committee in relation to the Department is at present receiving the consideration of the Minister of Blockade.