HC Deb 20 February 1934 vol 286 cc166-7
24. Mr. CHORLTON

asked the President of the Board of Trade the number of pairs of rubber footwear imported from British Malaya in January, 1934, and in January, 1933, respectively?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

The total number of rubber boots and shoes imported into the United Kingdom and registered as consigned from British Malaya was 1,171 dozen pairs in January, 1934, as against 136 dozen pairs in January, 1933.

Mr. CHORLTON

Can my right hon. Friend explain this extraordinary increase, and is he going to take any action in any way?

Mr. GIBSON

Has the right hon. Gentleman any reason to suppose that any of these goods are coming in indirectly from Japan through Malaya?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I am afraid that I cannot answer that question.