§ 5. Mr. KILEYasked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the extensive trade carried on in this country in the exporting of Foreign and Colonial merchandise to the value of several hundred millions per annum, he will, before agreeing to any proposals concerning the marking of such commodities with the country of origin, undertake to consult representatives of the export, shipping, and transport trades so as to prevent the loss of this profitable branch of this country's commerce?
§ Sir R. HORNEThe Report of the Merchandise Marks Committee, which I hope to be able to present to Parliament in a few days, will be considered from the point of view of all the interests concerned. I may mention, however, that the Committee took evidence from the interests mentioned by the hon. Member.
§ Mr. KILEYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the shipping and transport trades complain that they did not get an opportunity of giving their evidence?
§ Sir R. HORNEThe hon. Member says so, and I shall be glad to inquire into it. My information is that they were heard before the Committee.