HC Deb 24 February 1930 vol 235 cc1856-7
44. Sir ASSHETON POWNALL

asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether his Department is investigating, has investigated, or will investigate, in collaboration with the Northampton boot and shoe manufacturers, the possibility of exporting several million pairs of boots and shoes to Russia?

49. Mr. WOMERSLEY

asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Depart- ment what steps he is taking to assist British manufacturers to obtain an increase of orders for the export of British footwear; and has he visited Northampton, Leicester and Bristol to discuss plans for securing the large order for boots required by the Russian Government?

92. Sir G. HAMILTON

asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department if he will inquire of the Northampton footwear manufacturers whether they require facilities under the Export Credits Scheme to cover five years' credit to enable them to secure the order for footwear which the Soviet delegation desires to place in England; and, if not five years, what the length of credit is that is asked for by the Soviet delegation in relation to this order?

Mr. GILLETT

Representatives of the boot and shoe manufacturers have recently seen my hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster with general reference to export trade with Russia. Subsequently interviews took place with officers of the Export Credits Guarantee Department, but these resulted in no definite proposals being made to the Department. I am always ready to discuss specific proposals for developing trade in any market.

Sir A. POWNALL

What has caused the hitch in regard to this contract?

Mr. GILLETT

I understand that, as far as my Department is concerned, no contract ever has been made; therefore, there was no hitch on our side.

Mr. MALONE

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the president of the Boot and Shoe Manufacturers' Association has declared that he is perfectly satisfied that the Government are doing all they can?

Mr. GILLETT

I have not seen the statement, but I have been informed of it.

Mr. A. M. SAMUEL

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that one of the deputation from Northampton has declared that he is thoroughly dissatisfied with the action of the Labour Government?

Sir G. HAMILTON

If five years' credit cannot be given in the case of this contract, what credit would be given?

Mr. GILLETT

When application is made, the Advisory Committee will inform them.