§ 43. Mr. G. GIBSONasked the President of the Board of Trade if he will state in value and in square feet the imports of upper leather from the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics during 1930 and in the first four months of this year; and how the import price of such goods compares with the cost of production of similar goods manufactured in this country?
§ Mr. W. R. SMITHDuring the year 1930, the total imports of upper leather into the United Kingdom registered as consigned from the Soviet Union amounted to 331,800 square feet, valued at. £19,600, while during the first four months of 1931 they were 488,700 square feet, valued at £24,600. I have no information regarding the second part of the question.
§ Mr. GIBSONIs the hon. Gentleman aawre of the fact that this enormous increase is to a great extent owing to the fact that leather is not being offered in this country at the present time at specific prices, but that buyers are asked to make bids? I have been in that position myself this week.