HC Deb 15 February 1917 vol 90 cc802-3
60. Colonel Lord HENRY CAVEN-DISH-BENTINCK

asked the President of the Board of Trade what steps he is prepared to take to prohibit the import of foreign-made embroidery, seeing that it is purely an article of luxury, that it takes up about 20,000 tons of ships' space yearly which could be used for importing necessaries, and that there is, moreover, reason to believe that a considerable portion of the goods so imported are of enemy origin?

Mr. ROBERTS

This matter is being considered amongst others in connection with the proposals for further restrictions which are now before the Government.

Sir J. D. REES

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that these imports amounted to upwards of £3,000,000 in value last year, money which might have been spent to great advantage in supporting the Midland trade?

Mr. OUTHWAITE

Before the hon. Gentleman takes action will he consider that to stop these imports would disastrously affect one of the few French industries which have been able to maintain an export trade?

Mr. ROBERTS

The question in all its aspects is under consideration.

Mr. BUTCHER

Will this inquiry go into the importation of the feathers of foreign birds?