HC Deb 15 February 1932 vol 261 cc1259-60
37. Mr. HAMILTON KERR

asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department if he can state what steps he is taking to bring to the notice of British textile manufacturers the new opportunities at their disposal in the Finnish market in consequence of the fact that the raising by Germany of duties on Finnish imports has led to a boycott of German goods in Finland?

Major COLVILLE

I would refer to the reply given to my hon. Friend the Member for Clayton (Mr. Flanagan) on Monday, 8th February. In addition, I have taken the opportunity of personally discussing the prospects of British trade in Finland with certain prominent officials of the Finnish Government who have recently visited this country. The Commercial Secretary to His Majesty's Legation at Helsingfors is actively following the matter up.

Mr. KERR

Is my hon. Friend aware that German textile exports to Finland last year amounted to 66,000,000 marks and our own to 17,000,000?

Major COLVILLE

I am aware of those facts, and they are under consideration.