HC Deb 29 November 1933 vol 283 cc857-8
63. Mr. PIKE

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the serious effect to trade and employment in Sheffield, particularly to safety-razor blade manufacturers, caused by the increasing importations of German blades at retail prices below British production cost; whether he is aware that owing to the Anglo-German trade agreement the fixed maximum rate of duty precludes the Tariff Advisory Committee from recommending further increases; and what steps he proposes to take to relieve the committee of these restrictions?

Dr. BURGIN

The average number of safety razor blades imported monthly from Germany during recent months exceeded that of 1932 by some 10 per cent., and was only about one-sixth of the 1931 average. I do not consider that steps on my part are called for.

Mr. PIKE

In view of the fact that the Advisory Committee have intimated to the firms concerned that action in this matter is nullified or precluded by the Anglo-German Agreement, and in view of German currency manipulations which a re depressing British industrialists in this country, will the hon. Gentleman recommend his right hon. Friend to take steps to terminate the Anglo-German Agreement or to establish favourable conditions for British manufacturers?

Dr. BURGIN

It is not proposed to terminate the Anglo-German Agreement.

Mr. PIKE

Will the Government see that British manufacturers are treated better?

64. Mr. PIKE

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will state the total importation from Germany of razor blades for the three months preceding the Anglo-German trade agreement, and for the three months ended 31st October, 1933?

Dr. BURGIN

The trade agreement with Germany came into operation as from the 8th May last. The total imports of safety razor blades into the United Kingdom registered as consigned from Germany during the three months ended 30th April, 1933, amounted to 597,000 dozens, of a declared value of £7,869. During the three months ended 31st October, 1933, the corresponding imports were 657,000 dozens, valued at £9,148.

Mr. PIKE

Does not that indicate the necessity for taking the action suggested in my first supplementary to Question number 63?

Dr. BURGIN

No, Sir.