§ 2. Brigadier-General CROFTasked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether there is a shortage of flax and cotton supplies; and, if so, whether he will give an undertaking that no linen and cotton products should be permitted to leave this country except for purposes in Allied countries?
§ Captain Viscount WOLMER (War Trade Department)The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. With regard to the second part, His Majesty's Government are not prepared to accede to the recommendation of my hon. and gallant Friend that the export of linen and cotton products should be discontinued except for purposes in Allied countries. This would even exclude exports to India, the Dominions, and other British Possessions. The prohibitions affecting the export of linen apply to all destinations, and the export of linen goods suitable for war purposes is only allowed under licences which are restricted to the Allies and British Possessions and Protectorate. As regards cotton, adequate supplies are at present available for home use and that of our Allies. Exports to other countries have been greatly reduced, and are being carefully watched.