§ 66. Mr. GILBERTasked the President of the Board of Trade what are the conditions on which export licences are granted to tea merchants; whether licences are granted only for the same quantities and for the same countries as the merchant shipped in pre-war times; whether merchants can apply for export licences 1785 for any country; and, if not, if he will state for what reason such restrictions are imposed?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANThe export of tea is permitted at the rate of 7,000,000 lbs. per month. Licences were originally granted to exporters based upon their average yearly export during the period 1913–1915, but as the quantity allowed was not fully taken up by exporters who had an export trade during the period named, licences are being granted freely up to the prescribed maximum to all applicants. Export licences are granted for all destinations with which trading is permitted.
§ Captain WEDGWOOD BENNCan the hon. Gentleman say under what power these export licences are granted?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANI should like to have notice of that question.