HC Deb 22 July 1925 vol 186 cc2205-6
73. Sir ROBERT GOWER

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the mani festo issued by the India Rubber Manufacturers' Association, protesting against the limitation of exports of rubber from Malaya and Ceylon; whether he is aware that such limitation and the consequent high price of rubber in this country will probably have the effect of causing works manufacturing rubber products to close down; and whether he will consider the necessity of terminating or modifying the Stevenson scheme?

The SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Mr. Amery)

I have seen the manifesto, but as regards the rest of my hon. Friend's question I would refer him to the answer given on the 14th July to the hon. Member for Southwark Central.

Colonel DAY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that members of the Stevenson Committee are now becoming directors of new companies formed for the purpose of selling rubber?

Mr. WADDINGTON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that there is definite unemployment caused by these: restrictions, and that the manufacturers of rubber goods of various classes are unable to put in hand the autumn trade, as they usually do?

Mr. AMERY

If my hon. Friend will give me details, I shall be very glad to have them. So far I have not had any definite evidence of that kind.

Mr. WALLHEAD

Would the Government take more definite action if this were ascribed to a trade union and not to a trade organisation?