HC Deb 21 February 1935 vol 298 cc521-2
66. Mr. SUTCLIFFE

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether his attention has been called to the heavy decrease in the exports of cotton piece-goods to British Colonies; and whether, as a result of recent local legislation, there has been any improvement in the volume of such exports?

The SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Sir P. Cunliffe-Lister)

I am, of course, aware of the decline in the exports of United Kingdom cotton piece-goods to the Colonial Empire during the last few years, but I believe that the quota systems introduced last year in a number of territories have been effective in reversing the process. Reports on the operation of the quotas which are now being received indicate a definite improvement in imports from the United Kingdom in the latter part of last year.