§ 51. Sir G. FOX (for Mr. LENNOXBOYD)asked the President of the Board of Trade if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the imports of dental, surgical, medical and veterinary instruments and appliances (except optical) have increased from £163,813 in the first half of 1932 to £215,250 in the first half of 1933, and to £247,022 in the first half of 1934; and what further steps he proposes to take to protect the British industry manufacturing these scientific goods?
§ Dr. BURGINI am aware of the facts to which my hon. Friend draws attention. Any question of an increase in the duty on these goods must be dealt with by the ordinary procedure under the Import Duties Act.
§ Mr. H. WILLIAMSIs it not the case that a considerable proportion of these goods are dutiable under the Safeguarding of Industries Act, 1921, as extended by the Finance Act of 1926, and that accordingly no application can be made 1260 to the Import Duties Advisory Committee?
§ Dr. BURGINNo, Sir. According to my information, that applies to very few of the goods in question.