§ 26. Mr. MITCHESONasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has considered the evidence in the recent proceedings undertaken by his Department against Osda, Limited, which indicates that certain furniture goods of Russian origin are offered for sale in this country at wholesale prices approximately one-third below cost of manufac- 1075 ture in this country; and whether, in view of this evidence when entering negotiations for a further trading agreement with Soviet Russia, be will take steps to protect the British furniture trade from competition of this character?
§ Dr. BURGINThe foreign country of origin of the furniture was not established in the proceedings referred to, as the question did not arise. I have noted my hon. Friend's representations.
§ Mr. MITCHESONIs it disputed that the goods were made in Russia?
§ Dr. BURGINThe point is that the question was not discussed or dealt with, nor was any evidence on that matter given.
§ Mr. MITCHESONIf I bring the hon. Gentleman the evidence, will he take the matter up?
§ Dr. BURGINI will certainly consider any evidence that is submitted to me.