HC Deb 25 February 1932 vol 262 cc556-7
79. Mr. JANNER

asked the President of the Board of Trade the quantity and value of imports of fruit and vegetables from the Canary Islands and of British exports of potatoes and fertilisers thereto in 1931?

The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Runciman)

As the answer involves a number of figures, I will, with my hon. Friend's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the answer:

cations for the admission of foreign personnel. The Board of Trade do not undertake to advise as to available premises and sites, but attention is drawn, whenever occasion offers, to the considerations which my hon. Friend has in mind.

Mr. WARDLAW-MILNE

Where application is made to the Board of Trade, are they in a position to put forward a list of desirable centres for these factories? Would not that be preferable to allowing them to be placed all round London?

Sir STAFFORD CRIPPS

Does not the right hon. Gentleman think the time has now arrived when some concerted planning of the placing of these factories can be undertaken by the State?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

No, Sir, I do not think it rests with the Board of Trade to make a selection of one district over another. If any information is asked for we are always glad to do what we can in the matter.

Mr. RHYS DAVIES

Has the right hon. Gentleman any definite information that firms have already come here?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

Yes, Sir.