HC Deb 15 November 1920 vol 134 cc1479-80
1. Mr. RAPER

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the imports of foreign toys into this country this year up to the end of September amounted in value to £1,381,287; whether it is the case that these imports of toys are constituting a grave threat to a new British industry; and whether the time has now arrived when the Government should consider means to check the importation of toys, in accordance with the undertaking of his predecessor?

The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of TRADE (Sir Robert Home)

I am well aware that the value of toys imported into the United Kingdom is now as great as the hon. Member states. As I have already stated in this House, the whole question of the increased importation of goods resulting from the state of the exchange is under the consideration of the Government.

Mr. RAPER

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that some months ago his predecessor, in answer to a question, stated that the value of the toys imported from Germany was negligible, but that should it amount to a considerable figure proper steps would be taken to put a stop to it?

Mr. A. SHAW

If other nations can send us goods, and make them to advantage, is not that the essence of profitable international trade?

Captain TERRELL

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the importation of foreign toys into this country is one of the causes of unemployment to-day?

Sir R. HORNE

I am afraid that we are getting into a debate by question and answer.

6. Lieut.-Colonel POWNALL

asked the President of the Board of Trade the value of the imports of toys and games from Germany, Netherlands, and other countries during the first ten months of the year 1920, as compared with the similar period in the year 1913?

Sir R. HORNE

The answer will involve a statistical table, and, if my hon. Friend will allow me, I will have this published in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

The following is the table referred to:

The values of the imports of toys and games into the United Kingdom consigned from Germany, Netherlands, and other countries registered during the 10 months ended 31st October, 1913 and 1920, respectively, were as follows:

Country whence consigned. 10 months ended 31st October.
1913.* 1920.
£ £
Germany 920,564 1,095,262
Netherlands 2,166 60,905
Other Countries 217,482 941,066
Total 1,140,212 2,097,233
* The figures for 1913 probably include a small amount in respect of balls, wholly or mainly of rubber, and of sports goods, which are not now classified under the heading of "Toys and Games."
It ought to be kept in mind that figures in money for 1920 are not really comparable with such figures for 1913.