HC Deb 01 December 1919 vol 122 cc2-3
3. Mr. CHARLES WHITE

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can state the difference in value between exports and imports for the first ten months of the present year, and to what extent that difference is met by the services rendered by Great Britain to other countries; and to what extent the difference is so covered during the months of September and October, respectively?

Sir A. GEDDES

The value of the imports into the United Kingdom for the first ten months of the present year was £1,320,000,000, and of the exports (including exports of foreign and Colonial merchandise) £738,000,000. The difference in value between exports and imports thus amounted to £582,000,000. The material required to make an estimate of the kind suggested in the latter part of the question is not available

Mr. A. M. SAMUEL

Is it not the fact that these figures are modified by the invisible exports of this country; and if so, would it not be a help if a rough estimate of these invisible exports were from time to time given?

Sir A. GEDDES

The reply I have just given says that we have no material available to give anything like an approximately accurate estimate.

14. Mr. LUNN

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will publish a list of the British companies whom it is proposed to protect by the prohibition of the imports of goods in Schedule II. of the Imports and Exports Regulation Bill?

Sir A. GEDDES

No, Sir; it is not proposed to protect particular undertakings. The object of the Second Schedule of the Bill is to safeguard certain key industries.

Mr. SPOOR

Is the gas mantle industry amongst those proposed to be protected?

Sir A. GEDDES

If the hon. Gentleman will look at his copy of the Bill he will see which it is proposed to protect.

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