§ 44. Mr. HAMMERSLEYasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has received any information in 511 respect to the alteration of certain duties by Egypt; and, if so, will he give the details affecting cotton goods?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANI understand that the Egyptian duties on cotton yarns and certain cotton piece goods were modified by Decree of 14th May with immediate effect. I have not yet received full details of the modifications, but I am informed that there is an increase of 30 per cent. in the duties on fabrics of pure cotton weighing 140 to 180 grammes per square metre, unbleached, bleached, and dyed, and that there is a general increase averaging from 10 to 20 per cent. on cotton yarns.
§ Mr. HAMMERSLEYIs my right hon. Friend taking all available steps to ensure that the interests of this essential export trade are properly safeguarded?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANAs soon as I have the full details, I can certainly consider that.