HC Deb 04 March 1931 vol 249 cc391-3
58. Sir W. BRASS

asked the President of the Board of Trade what action, if any, His Majesty's Government proposes to take with regard to the suggested increase of 5 per cent. in the import duties on cotton goods imported from this country into India; and whether, in view of the grave unemployment position which has persisted for so long in Lancashire, His Majesty's Government has made any representations to the Government of India on this subject prior to the announcement made by Sir George Schuster?

57. Sir GERALD HURST

asked the President of the Board of Trade in what respects the intended increases of Indian import duties will affect cotton goods made in this country; and what action His Majesty's Government intends to take to protect the interests of the Indian consumers and of the Lancashire cotton trade in relation to such increases?

of Trade whether he can state the respective amounts of raw flax, heckled flax, tow, and manufactured flax goods that have been imported into this country from Russia during 1930?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. W. R. Smith)

As the answer involves a tabular statement I will, with the hon. Member's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the statement

Mr. W. R. SMITH

The increases will affect all imported piece-goods from this and other countries. Representations were made by my right hon. Friend pointing out that the surcharge would be bound to be regarded in this country with the greatest anxiety; but, in view of the extremely difficult Budget position, the Government of India regretted that they were unable to modify their proposals in any way. The matter now rests with the Indian Legislature.

Sir W. BRASS

Will the hon. Gentleman take into consideration the disastrous effect of these extra duties on Lancashire, and press the Government of India that these duties should apply only to non-British goods?

Mr. SMITH

Representations have already been wade pointing out and emphasising the position of this country, but, as my hon. and gallant Friend will understand, we have no real control in the matter.

Mr. HAMMERSLEY

Is not the Parliamentary Secretary aware that the importation of grey cotton cloth into India is subjected either to an ad valorem duty or a specific duty—

Mr. SPEAKER

We really cannot have a Debate. Hon. Members seem to misunderstand what questions are for.

Mr. HAMMERSLEY

On a point of Order. I desire to put a specific question arising out of the answer. It is this: Is it proposed to increase the specific duty as well as the ad valorem duty?

Mr. SMITH

I think I have answered as far as possible the question on the Paper. I do not think I can give further details.

Mr. HAMMERSLEY rose

Mr. SPEAKER

It seems quite clear that the hon. Member does not understand that this is Question Time. Major Colville.

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