61. Mr. C. PALMERasked the Lord Privy Seal who is the author of the Report on Industrial and Commercial Conditions in Germany at the close of the year 1919; whether His Majesty's Government is 443 satisfied that, while Germany will not be a serious rival in trade so long as present conditions last, her industrial machinery is undamaged as yet in its vital parts and would respond rapidly to any stimulus; and whether, in view of these statements, the Government will bear these facts in mind when framing the promised Anti-Dumping Bill?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Bridgeman)I have been asked to reply. The report in question, which has been issued by the Department of Overseas Trade, was drawn up by His Majesty's Commercial Commissioner in Berlin. I see no reason to doubt the substantial accuracy of the conclusion quoted by the hon. Member. As regards the last part of the question, the commercial policy to be proposed by His Majesty's Government will take account of all relevant considerations.