65. Sir WILLIAM BARTONasked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to an application made by W. T. Alexander, of G, Brown Street, Manchester, for a licence to import a small quantity of algole 5G powder; whether he is aware that the applicant was informed by the Licensing Committee that a similar product could be obtained from the British Dyestuffs Corporation, Limited, from whom he obtained a sample; whether the Board is aware that this sample was tested by the actual consumers who reported direct to 1553 the Licensing Committee that the proposed substitute was not so pure and rich in tone as algole 5G, and that its properties as regards fastness were not so good; whether he is aware that the price reckoned on the basis of price per lb. and tinctoral value was more than three times that of the colour asked for, and that the consumers in question have no desire to get colour abroad if they can be reasonably supplied at home; and whether, the facts being as stated, he will give instructions to grant a licence?
§ Mr. BALDWINI have made inquiry into this case. The Advisory Licensing Committee have investigated the quality of the British product and are satisfied that in this respect there is no sufficient reason for the grant of a licence. As regards price, the consumers concerned have been asked to furnish the Committee with certain information, on receipt of which the matter will be further considered.
Sir W. BARTONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Licensing Committee is now demanding proof from the dye users that the greater price of the British dye injuriously affects the competitive position of the finished fabric; is he aware that the ordinary dyer is usually without such knowledge, his business being confined to the dyeing; and does he think it reasonable that such proof should be asked for?
§ Mr. BALDWINI am much obliged for the information.
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat question had better be put on the Paper. The right hon. Gentleman will have to look up the Debates.