HC Deb 14 April 1931 vol 251 cc11-2
39. Mr. DOUGLAS HACKING

asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department what action he has taken during the past three months to improve our cotton export trade to India?

Mr. GILLETT

As the right hon. Gentleman is aware, the situation during the period in question has been dominated by the existence of the boycott, which during that period brought our export trade in cotton goods to India practically to a standstill. His Majesty's Trade Commissioners have, however, kept me continuously informed of the position. They have in addition undertaken a close investigation of the competitive situation in bleached cotton goods, and their report on this matter will be communicated to the trade at the earliest possible moment.

Mr. HACKING

Will the hon. Gentleman state what action he has taken during the last few months? Is it a fact that practically no action has been taken?

Mr. GILLETT

The latter part of my answer indicates the action that has been taken.

Mr. HACKING

Will not the hon. Gentleman give us the information that has been obtained?

Mr. T. SNOWDEN

Is my hon. Friend aware that there are more looms going in Lancashire and Yorkshire, as a consequence of the sound policy that the Secretary of State has pursued, than there were last year?

Mr. BROTHERS

Do questions of this nature tend to improve the trade relations between India and this country?

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