HC Deb 30 May 1933 vol 278 cc1691-2
3. Mr. HAMMERSLEY

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has any information as to the procedure adopted by Switzerland in prohibiting the importation of Japanese goods; and, if so, will he give details?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

Switzerland does not prohibit the importation of goods from any country. Restrictions are imposed upon the importation of a few classes of goods, and in those cases quotas are allotted to Japan in the same way as to any other foreign country.

8. Mr. LUNN

asked the President of the Board of Trade if, in view of the effect on industry of the embargo placed on the import of worsted yarns from this country into Switzerland, he will consider taking steps for its removal?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

The import of woollen and worsted yarns into Switzerland was made subject to licence on 23rd May last, but I have, as yet, no information as to the extent of the limitation imposed. The hon. Gentleman will be aware that the Swiss Government have made use of the quota system for the limitation of imports in the case of a variety of goods, and I do not think that any useful purpose would be served by protesting against its application in particular cases, unless there is evidence that it entails discrimination against this country.