§ 36. Mr. HANNONasked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department if he has given full consideration to the recommendation made in the report of the British trade mission to South Africa, namely, that the efforts of the Empire Marketing Board in this country on behalf of the Dominions and Colonies should have their counterpart in a State- 15 aided campaign to advertise British goods in all parts of the British Empire; and what action he proposes to take?
§ Mr. GILLETTThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The Government will not fail to bear in mind the views expressed in this report and I hope that at some future time it may be possible to take steps in the direction which the mission had in mind. I fear, however, that any substantial increase of expenditure on these lines is impracticable at present having regard to the financial situation.
§ Mr. HANNONIs it not most important, if we are to carry on in this country, an intensive propaganda in favour of the sale of Imperial products —that is, the products of our Dominions and Colonies—that we should institute some corresponding propaganda in the Dominions and Colonies in favour of the sale of our own British products; and will the hon. Gentleman take that matter into immediate consideration?
§ Mr. PYBUSBefore the hon. Gentleman replies—[HON MEMBERS: "Answer!"]—may I ask him if he is aware that in the railway stations in South Africa advertisements of British goods are to be printed in both Dutch and English?
§ Mr. GILLETTYes, Sir, I am aware of that fact. I shall certainly bear in mind the point raised by the hon. Member for Moseley (Mr. Hannon), and, if he sees any opportunity of doing anything, I shall be only too glad to consider the matter.
§ Captain EDENWhy is this Government always waiting? The South African Government have already offered to help, and why cannot His Majesty's Government do something?