HC Deb 02 April 1935 vol 300 cc184-5
20. Mr. CHORLTON

asked the President of the Board of Trade what action he proposes to take with reference to the increased import of exceptionally low-priced Japanese shirts and the increase of unemployment arising from it?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

The question of an increase in the import duty on these goods is, in the first instance, one for the Import Duties Advisory Committee. It is open to the interests concerned to apply to that committee.

Mr. CHORLTON

In view of the difficulty, of which my right hon. Friend will be 'aware, that small industries like this have in getting together to formulate an application, will he try to help in some way, because of the unemployment which arises from this competition?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

No matter how small an industry may be, I am sure the committee will give them a hearing.

21. Mr. CHORLTON

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will give the figures for the imports of Japanese cotton goods into this country for January and February; if there is any fall over similar periods last year; and if any fresh action is proposed to modify the rate of import duty now in force?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

The total value of the imports of cotton yarns and of manufactures of cotton, other than apparel, in January and February, 1935, was £361,390, of which the amount consigned from Japan was £ 32,732. The corresponding figures for 1934 were £ 371,287 and £ 21,031. It will be seen that the imports from Japan represent a small proportion of the total imports from all sources, and that these total imports have declined. The question of any modification of the rate of import duty, if the cotton industry should consider modification necessary, is, as my hon. Friend is aware, for consideration in the first instance by the Import Duties Advisory Committee.

Mr. CHORLTON

In view of the particular reference to the smaller firms dealing with made-up goods like shirts, is it not significant that the import of Japanese goods is eight times more this year than it was last year, taking it on the January basis? Will the right hon. Gentleman not take some steps to assist these small industries to put their case before the Advisory Committee?