§ 44. Sir K. FRASERasked the Prime Minister if the Government propose to introduce anti-dumping legislation during the present Session; and, if so, will he consider the question of re-introducing the Import Restriction Clauses of the Defence of the Realm Act until such time as legislation can be framed to prevent dumping, or to equalise the difficulties created by the exchange?
§ The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of TRADE (Sir Robert Horne)I have been asked to reply. Owing to pressure on Parliamentary time, it will not be possible to introduce legislation dealing with dumping during the present Session. As regards the second part of the question, the hon. and gallant Member is, I think, under a misapprehension. Prohibitions of importations were imposed during the War, not under the Defence of the Realm Act, but under Section 43 of the Customs Consolidation Act, 1876. The Courts have since decided that this 2088 Section cannot be utilised for the purpose in question.
Colonel LOWTHERIs it not the fact that many of our industries, notably the glass industry, are suffering terribly from this delay? Can nothing be done to expedite the delay?
§ Sir R. HORNEI think the hon. Member is under a misapprehension. This has nothing to do with dumping.