HC Deb 19 March 1929 vol 226 cc1577-8
6. Mr. T. SHAW

asked the President of the Board of Trade how much money was granted or taken up by the Government as capital for the development of dyestuff production in this country between 1914 and 1924; and what proportion of this sum was invested in the British Dyestuffs Corporation.

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

The total amount granted and taken up by the Government as capital for the development of dyestuff production in this country between 1914 and 1924 was £2,005,751, of which £1,700,001 was invested in the British Dyestuffs Corporation.

7. Mr. SHAW

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether the Government has sold out its holdings in the British Dyestuffs Corporation; and, if so, for what sum?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

The Government holding in the British Dye-stuffs Corporation was disposed of in March, 1926, for the sum of £600,000.

Mr. BENN

The business Government.

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

The investment was made when the hon. Gentleman's late party was in office.

8. Mr. SHAW

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he has any information as to whether the combination arrived at between German and British dyestuffs producers delimits areas of sale, arranges certain quota quantities, or regulates prices?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

I am not aware of any combination or agreement between German and British dye makers.

Mr. SHAW

Do I understand the right hon. Gentleman to say that he does not know anything about any arrangement?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

Yes, I am not aware of any such arrangement or agreement with Germany.

Mr. HARRIS

If there were any such arrangement, would the Government be prepared to reconsider their decision in reference to the protection of the dye industry?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

That is a hypothetical question, but, there being no such arrangement, it obviously does not arise.