§ Sir H. CROFTasked the President of the Board of Trade whether the exports of artificial silk manufactures during the first three months of the year has been affected by the recent duties, or whether the value of such exports has increased; and, if so, what is the percentage increase in exports over the same three months of 1925?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERThe declared values of the exports of artificial silk manufactures (except apparel and embroidery) from the United Kingdom during the first quarters of 1926 and of 1925 were£1,357,489 and£742,178, respectively. The total for 1926 thus exceeded that for 1925 by 82.9 per cent.
§ Sir H. CROFTMay we take it on this evidence that the export trade of the country, rather than being adversely affected, has been benefited by the duties?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERI think that is a very reasonable assumption to draw.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYWould not the export trade be much greater but for these hampering duties?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERNo, Sir.
§ Commander BELLAIRSMay we take it, in view of the successful result of pro- 1004 tective duties in this case, that the right hon. Gentleman will use his influence to increase them?