§ 7. Captain PETER MACDONALDasked the President of the Board of Trade if he can now make a statement as to the results of the imposition of quotas against Japanese imports throughout the Empire; and whether there is any likelihood of an agreement being reached with Japan with regard to the competition of her cotton and other exports?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANThe result of the quotas has been to restrict imports of Japanese cotton and artificial silk piece goods into the Colonies, but sufficient time has not elapsed, particularly in view of existing stocks, to estimate the effect on the United Kingdom export trade, though it is understood that a number of orders and substantial inquiries for future business are now being received. In reply to the last part of the question I cannot at present add to the final paragraph of the statement which I made in this House on the 7th May.
§ Captain MACDONALDCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether the negotiations have been broken off already, or whether they are proceeding?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANNo, I cannot say that they are broken off.
§ Mr. LYONSHas the right hon. Gentleman had his attention called to the great influx of cheap hosiery, brought into this country under conditions which we would not tolerate, and can he afford any steps at once to safeguard British trade from this very unfair competition?
§ Mr. T. WILLIAMSCan the right hon. Gentleman give any idea where the Japanese got the machinery with which they are making this hosiery?