HC Deb 27 January 1931 vol 247 cc780-1
31. Sir WILLIAM DAVISON

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will cause inquiries with reference to the conditions under which timber imported into this country from Russia is produced and handled to be made from British officers and men of our merchant ships who bring quantities of this timber to Great Britain?

Mr. W. GRAHAM

I do not propose to make any such inquiries, more especially as British mercantile marine officers and men could not he expected to speak as to the conditions under which the timber is produced or, except as regards loading on the ship, handled.

Sir W. DAVISON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the House of Commons was informed yesterday by the Foreign Office that the Soviet Government have refused to give any information with regard to these camps, and, having regard to the large amount of timber landed in this country from Russia, is it not desirable to consult our own nationals who have valuable information to give?

Mr. GRAHAM

I am familiar with the replies that were given yesterday by the Foreign Office, but that does not alter the fact that the form of inquiry which the hon. Member suggests is really quite inappropriate. These officers could not speak as to the conditions under which this timber is produced.

Sir W. DAVISON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that these officers have already made statements? [interruption.]

Mr. MACLEAN

Arising from that reply—[HON. MEMBERS: "Order!"] You have allowed, Mr. Speaker, several supplementaries on other questions.

Mr. SPEAKER

We must have regard to the great number of questions on the Paper.