34. Mr. G. HARVEYasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that there is a certain amount of maple and birch wood regularly imported for the manufacture of bobbins; that the timber for this purpose is brought over in a form unsuitable for the manufacture of furniture; that the prohibition of import will affect the carrying on of the textile trades, to which a constant supply of bobbins is a necessity; and, if so, will he say what action he proposes to take?
Mr. RUNCIMANI am giving directions for the issue of a general licence for the importation of bobbins and reels.
Mr. HARVEYIs not the right hon. Gentleman aware that what is wanted is the removal of the prohibition of the importation of the material out of which the bobbins are made and not of the articles themselves?
Mr. RUNCIMANAs at present advised I only propose to give a general, licence for bobbins and reels, but if there is necessary timber for the cotton industry if my hon. Friend will make representations to me on the subject I will, of course, consider them.
§ Sir A. MARKHAMIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is plenty of birch in this country available?