HC Deb 14 November 1932 vol 270 cc734-5
31. Lord SCONE

asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department if he will state, for each of the years 1921, 1926, 1931, and to the nearest convenient date in 1932, the amount of whiskey imported into Australia from this country?

Lieut.-Colonel J. COLVILLE (Secretary, Overseas Trade Department)

As the answer involves a number of figures, I propose, with the Noble Lord's permission, to circulate a statement in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Following is the statement:

attention to this matter, and I hope other hon. Members will help me by making it known in their constituencies that the Export Credits Guarantee Scheme applies, not only to Russia, but to all countries. The Department has branch offices in Manchester and Bradford and, by arrangement with the chambers of commerce, sends representatives periodically to other important industrial centres. It has now insured the payment of some £20,000,000 for British goods, largely textiles, exported to countries other than Russia.

Mr. CHORLTON

Is it not a fact that the export credits also apply to the Dominions and Colonies?

Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLE

Yes.

Sir WILLIAM DAVISON

Is it not a fact that an overwhelming amount of the credits is due to our guaranteeing Soviet Russia?

Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLE

Not an overwhelming amount, but a large proportion. People seem to find it necessary to insure their risks to trade with that country.