§ 31. Mr. BAILEYasked the President of the Board of Trade whether His Majesty's Government propose to take steps to prevent the continued increase of the importations of cotton piece-goods into this country?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANI am aware that there has been some increase in imports of cotton piece-goods into this country. It is open to the manufacturers concerned to apply to the Import Duties Advisory Committee with a view to increased duties on these goods. I would point out, however, that retained imports of cotton piece-goods amount to a fraction of 1 per cent. of the United Kingdom production of similar goods.
§ Lieut.-Commander ASTBURYIn view of the rapid increase in the importation of foreign cotton piece-goods into this country, is not this a question for prohibition and not to be put off in this way?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANThat question ought to be addressed to the Import Duties Advisory Committee.
§ Lieut.-Commander ASTBURYWould my right hon. Friend tell me whether the Import Duties Advisory Committee have the power to prohibit goods coming into this country?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANNo, they only have the power to advise, and we always consider their advice.
§ Mr. PALINGIs it not possible for the right hon. Gentleman to make an agreement so that we can sell everything to all countries of the world and buy nothing back?