§ 1. Sir RICHARD COOPERasked the President of the Board of Trade if he has been requested by the Association of Manufacturers of Wickless Stoves and Blow Lamps for an opportunity of discussing with him the position of this industry; and, if so, why such request has not been granted?
§ The PRESIDENT Of the BOARD of TRADE (Sir Auckland Geddes)I am afraid I never heard of the Association of Manufacturers of Wickless Stoves and Blow Lamps, nor can any request from a body with that name to send a deputation to see me be traced. The hon. Baronet will, I am sure, realise that it would be physically impossible for me to receive deputations from every small sectional organisation existing in industry which wishes its particular article of manufacture to be classified as the product of a, key industry. I have been in communication with the Petroleum Lamp and Stove Trade Association of the United Kingdom on the subject of wickless stoves and blow lamps, and shall be glad further to consider any detailed statement in writing which they may care to make.
§ 2. Sir R. COOPERasked what was the total value of wickless stoves and blow and brazing lamps imported into the United Kingdom in September and October last?
§ Sir A. GEDDESWickless stoves and blow and brazing lamps are not separately distinguished in the particulars of imports furnished to the Customs and Excise Department but are included under "Hardware." It is, therefore, not possible to give the information which the hon. Baronet desires.
§ Brigadier-General CROFTWhy is it not possible to get out details of these imports and exports?
§ Sir A. GEDDESIt is quite impossible for the present because of the way in which the trade returns are drawn up; in future it could be done.