HC Deb 02 December 1930 vol 245 cc1973-4
23. Mr. MATTERS

asked the President of the Board of Trade what combined or organised action is being taken by the motor car industry, in agreement with his Department, to develop the export trade in motor cars?

Mr. W. GRAHAM

I am glad to say that the British motor car industry, on co-operative lines, is vigorously prosecuting the development of its business in overseas markets. In spite of the general world depression, which naturally affects to a considerable degree an industry of this character, the results which have been achieved, particularly in the New Zealand market, are very encouraging. As part of its policy the industry has made arrangements for a comprehensive display of British motor products at the British Empire Trade Exhibition at Buenos Aires next year.

Mr. DOUGLAS HACKING

Has the attention of the right hon. Gentleman been called to a speech by the Chancellor of the Exchequer to the effect that the reason for the decrease in our export trade is due to the inefficiency of the motor industry?

Mr. GRAHAM

My attention has not been called to that speech.

Mr. MATTERS

Is it not the fact that the export trade bears very little relation to the general production of cars in this country?

Sir F. HALL

May I ask whether the Government contemplate any alteration in regard to taxation—

HON. MEMBERS

Order, Order.

Sir DENNIS HERBERT

Does the right hon. Gentleman agree that what the motor car industry has been able to do in this respect is largely due to the protection which has secured the home market?

Mr. PYBUS

Will the President of the Board of Trade say whether he considers that one effect of Safeguarding has been to encourage the home trade and discourage foreign trade?

24. Mr. MATTERS

asked the President of the Board of Trade the figures covering the export from this country of motor cars and light chassis for the 10 months ended 31st October, showing units and values?

Mr. GRAHAM

As stated in the latest issue of the "Accounts relating to Trade and Navigation of the United Kingdom" the total number of touring cars (including cabs), of domestic manufacture, exported from Great Britain and Northern Ireland during the 10 months January to October, 1930, was 15,581 of a declared value of £2,766,002, and the number of complete chassis for motor cars, etc., of a net weight below 28 cwts., other than those constructed solely for commercial use, was 3,402, valued at £363,674.

Mr. MATTERS

Cannot something be done to get this highly protected industry to bestir itself in the overseas markets?