§ 21. Mr. W. BAKERasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether he is aware that the latest figures show that the imports of motor ears into South Africa from the United States and Canada were out of all proportion to those from Great Britain, and that the figures were United States 7,181, of a value of £1,480,987, Canada 5,078, value £691,266, as against Great Britain 722, value £195,795; whether he will give the comparable figures for the other Dominions; and whether, seeing that the difficulty is mainly one of clearance and springing, he will circularise the principal manufacturers with a view to stimulating this trade with the Dominions?
§ Mr. A. M. SAMUELThere are being circulated with the OFFICIAL REPORT figures of the imports of motor cars, chassis, etc., into Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa from the various sources of supply. About six weeks ago I personally took steps to look into the question now raised by the hon. Member. I am inclined to doubt whether the particular factors to which he refers are really the most important. I am in communication on the whole matter with other Departments concerned, and he can rest assured that it is not being lost sight of.
§ Following are the figures promised:
§ Statement showing the imports of motor cars, etc., into the Union of South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and British India respectively during the most recent year available, distinguishing the principal sources of supply.
| UNION OF SOUTH AFRICA (1924). | ||
| Imports on Private Account. | ||
| Motor cars. | Number. | £ |
| Total imports of which from: | 13,476 | 2,469,087 |
| United Kingdom | 722 | 195,795 |
| Canada | 5,078 | 691,266 |
| United States of America | 7,181 | 1,480,987 |
| France | 226 | 36,066 |
| Italy | 212 | 56,898 |
| Germany | 54 | 7,403 |