HC Deb 28 October 1920 vol 133 cc1933-4
41. Mr. G. TERRELL

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the increasing unemployment caused by the free importation of goods of foreign manufacture, he can give an early date for the introduction of the long-promised antidimping Bill?

63. Mr. GRATTAN DOYLE

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware of the large and increasing importations of foreign manufactures which come directly under the heading of recognised British key industries, and in competition there with; and whether, in order to fulfil election promises made on behalf of the Government, the promised and long overdue Bill to deal with dumping and key industries will be immediately introduced?

The PRIME MINISTER

I regret that I cannot name a date for the introduction of this Bill.

Mr. TERRELL

May I ask when my right hon. Friend will be able to give an answer I Shall I repeat the question this day week? This question is one of very great importance. May I press for an answer to my question?

The PRIME MINISTER

It must be obvious to the hon. Gentleman that between now and Christmas we cannot possibly get through the programme in front of us if we introduce a Bill of this character. This is a very controversial topic, and I have no doubt it will take time.

Mr. DOYLE

May I ask if the Prime Minister will answer the first part of my question?

The PRIME MINISTER

I am afraid the time at our disposal would make it, as I say, difficult to carry through this matter.

Mr. DOYLE

Does not the right hon. Gentleman recognise that at the present time key industries are being jeopardised, and endangered by reason of foreign importations?

Captain R. TERRELL

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Anti-Dumping Bill was one of his election pledges, and does he still stand by them?

The PRIME MINISTER

Certainly. We stand by all our pledges.

Forward to