HC Deb 15 May 1933 vol 278 cc12-3
19. Miss HORSBRUGH

asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department what proportion of the total import of jute manufactures into the Argentine in the first three months of 1933 was of United Kingdom origin?

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

I regret that the information is not yet available.

Miss HORSBRUGH

Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that 80 per cent. of our purchases from the Argentine are in jute wrappers, and that only 8 per cent. of that jute is of United Kingdom origin? Further, what steps is he taking to get this trade, which would give work to 8,000 people now unemployed?

Lieut-Colonel COLVILLE

Those are the figures that I am trying to verify. In answer to the last part of the question, the matter has not been lost sight of.

Mr. HANNON

Was this matter considered when negotiations were in process with the Argentine?

Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLE

Yes.

Mr. KIRKWOOD

Is it not possible for the Minister to get the same concession here from the Argentine as we got from the Danes?

Miss HORSBRUGH

Will they get the further concession of all the jute put round goods coming here from the Argentine, and not merely meat?

Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLE

The hon. Lady must await events.