HC Deb 06 July 1931 vol 254 cc1708-9
40. Mr. A. M. SAMUEL

asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether he is aware that Italian foodstuffs are now reaching destinations in England by wagons running through from Italy via Harwich and the train ferry; and whether he has taken the necessary steps to arrange that the Italian exporters should reload, in payment, North Sea fish for Switzerland and Italy in the refrigerator wagons, and pottery in the ordinary wagons?

Mr. GILLETT (Secretary, Overseas Trade Department)

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. In regard to the second part, it is not within the competence of His Majesty's Government to control the methods by which foreign produce importers should take payment for their goods,

Mr. SAMUEL

Has the hon. Gentleman been down to the fishing ports and the Stoke district and brought these transport facilities to their notice?

Mr. GILLETT

If the hon. Gentleman has any suggestions, I will gladly consider them.

Mr. R. A. TAYLOR

Are not the merchants and employers in the industry efficient enough to look after their own business?