HC Deb 12 November 1928 vol 222 cc479-80
34. Sir. F. HALL

asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department what is the value of the motor vehicles imported to and exported from Great Britain in 1923; what were the corresponding figures for 1927; how many motor vehicles were turned out by British factories in 1923; and what was the number in 1927?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Herbert Williams)

The answer in- cludes a table of figures; and, with my hon. and gallant Friend's permission, will circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the answer:

The following statement shows the total declared values of complete motor cars (touring cars and commercial vehicles) and chassis imported into, and exported from, the United Kingdom during each of the years 1923 and 1927:

1923. 1927.
£ £
Total imports 4,573,477 5,176,210
Exports of manufactures of the United Kingdom 2,843,721 8,450,475
Re-exports of imported goods 480,377 274,442

In addition the imports and exports of complete motor cycles and tri-cars were as follows:—

1923. 1927.
£ £
Total imports 44,986 6,716
Exports of manufactures of the United Kingdom 809,750 2,142,172
Re-exports of imported goods 1,946 603

Notes.—From 1st April, 1923, the figures include the trade of Great Britain and Northern Ireland with the Irish Free State; from the same date the direct foreign trade of the Irish Free State is excluded.

The value of rubber tyres and tubes forming part of the equipment of complete motor cars and chassis and motor cycles is included as from 12th April, 1927.

Cars and chassis assembled in the United Kingdom from imported parts and afterwards exported are recorded as manufactures of the United Kingdom.

According to estimates published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, the output of British moor vehicles and chassis numbered 88,000 in 1923, and 209,000 in 1927. These figures do not include cars. etc., assembled in this country from imported parts.

The British Cycle and Motor Cycle Manufacturers' and Traders' Union. Limited, estimate the production of complete motor cycles in Great Britain in 1923 at about 80,000 and in 1927 at about 140,000.