§ 10. Mr. HERBERT WILLIAMSasked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether his attention has been drawn to the declining share of the United Kingdom in the Indian market for footwear, _the imports of which into India declined in quantity from 2.0 per cent. in the fiscal year ended 31st March, 1933, to 1.75 per cent. in the fiscal year ended 31st March, 1934; and whether his. 7 Department are taking any steps to secure for British manufacturers a larger share of this market?
§ Lieut.-Colonel J. COLVILLE (Secretary, Overseas Trade Department)Yes, Sir. This question was dealt with in a survey of the import trade of India recently prepared by His Majesty's Senior Trade Commissioner. This report shows that there has been a falling off, as stated, in the imports of footwear, including rubber footwear, into India. It will, however, be noted that if measured in value the former share of the trade has been retained by the United Kingdom. As regards the second part of the question the Department last year communicated to United Kingdom exporters through the appropriate association a detailed report upon the competitive situation and has also circulated the more recent information to the firms and trade association interested in this market.