§ 12. Mr. RAPERasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether his attention has been drawn to the fact that 50 tons of Watson's Matchless Cleanser Soap, value £5,000, which was shipped in error by the British Rhineland Navigation and Transport Company per ss. "Jupiter" on 21st April, after the shippers had given instructions not to ship on account of an import licence being required after 18th April, have been confiscated by the German authorities in Cologne; whether he is aware that, despite repeated applications having been made to the authorities in Berlin and Cologne for the 1208 release of the soap, either to form part of a delivery for which a licence has been granted or for permission to send the soap back to England, the owner is now told that such permission cannot be given and that the soap is irrevocably confiscated; and whether he will request the German authorities to return this soap to its British owners?
The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Bridge-man)I have been asked to reply. My attention has not previously been called to this case. I should be glad if the hon. Member would furnish me with the name and address of the owner of the consignment. in order that the matter may be dealt with.