§ 15. Mr. JOHNSTONE:asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that prior to the War large quantities of umbrella frames and ribs were imported from Germany; that since the War these goods were largely imported from America; that the importation from America is not now permitted except where evidence is furnished to the Board of Trade that they cannot be procured in this country; whether he is aware that the manufacture of umbrella frames and ribs in Great Britain is practically confined to two firms, and that the price charged in this country is 22s. 2d. per dozen, whereas these firms are offering to sell in Spain frames and ribs at 17s. per dozen c.i.f. Barcelona; and whether, in view of the effect upon British trade of the dumping of these goods in Spain at 5s. 2d. less than the price charged to umbrella manufacturers in this country, he will consider the removal of the restriction of these goods from America so that British manufacturers and exporters may no longer be penalised?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI was not aware of the facts as to prices as given in the question, but if it can be shown that umbrella manufacturers are being hampered either in their home or their export trade by any manipulation of the prices of their materials, my right hon. Friend will see that the position is met by the issue of licences in suitable cases.