HC Deb 05 February 1934 vol 285 cc788-9
49. Mr. HAMMERSLEY

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether his attention has been drawn to the dumping of Japanese cement in Hong Kong; and what action he proposes to take to protect the local industry?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for DOMINION AFFAIRS (Mr. Malcolm MacDonald)

My right hon. Friend has already been in communication with the Governor of Hong Kong on the subject of Japanese imports of cement into that Colony. The Governor, after taking into consideration all the circumstances, including the advantage to the trade of Hong Kong of its status as a free port, reported that he did not consider it desirable to interfere with such imports.

Mr. HAMMERSLEY

Does that mean that this industry of Hong Kong, which has been established at a good deal of expense, is now to be left to be decimated by Japanese competition?

Mr. MacDONALD

The Government of Hong Kong is doing all it can to help, and have made arrangements to use as much British cement as is possible in all public works. I understand that during last year it gave an order of some 70,000 tons in connection with waterworks.

Mr. HAMMERSLEY

Are we to understand from the reply that the Governor of Hong Kong has definitely reported to His Majesty's Government saying that protection for this native industry of Hong Kong against Japanese competition in cement is not necessary or advisable?

Mr. MacDONALD

I can add nothing to my reply, which completely answers that question. The Governor has taken many circumstances into consideration, and has come to this decision.