HC Deb 27 March 1934 vol 287 c1796
22. Mr. HERBERT WILLIAMS

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been drawn to the fact that the imports of hats, caps, and other headgear in the first two months of the present year totalled 431,000 dozen as compared with 225,000 dozen in the corresponding months of last year; and what steps it is proposed to take to deal with this increase in importation?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I am aware of the figures to which my hon. Friend draws attention. It is open to the manufacturers concerned to apply to the Import Duties Advisory Committee for an increased duty upon these goods.

Captain DOWER

Is it not a fact that some foreign countries are subsidising these imports into this country?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I shall have to have notice of that question.

Mr. NORTH

Will my right hon. Friend bring this question to the attention of the Import Duties Advisory Committee, because it is of considerable importance to the industry?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

The procedure is perfectly well known, and the approach must be made by the parties interested.