HC Deb 06 June 1935 vol 302 cc2029-30
55. Sir BASIL PETO

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the fact that the German Government are now giving a subsidy of 20 per cent. On fabric gloves exported from Germany to this country; and whether, seeing that this has practically neutralised the import duty on fabric gloves and put large numbers of fabric glove workers out of employment, he intends to take any action?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Dr.Burgin)

I have no information as to the extent, if any, to which the German Government is assisting the export of fabric gloves, but I would point out that the imports into this country of such gloves from Ger many were lower for the first four months of 1935 than for the corresponding period in 1934 and that the average value of these imports showed an increase. The question of any increase in the present level of the import duties is, of course, in the first instance one for the Import Duties Advisory Committee.

Sir B. PETO

Will the hon. Gentle man see that inquiries are made through the usual diplomatic channels, and, if it is ascertained that such a, subsidy as is mentioned in the question is, in fact, being granted, will he deal with it in any negotiations with the German Government for a, trade agreement?

Dr. BURGIN

I entirely agree that the question of the extent to which there is a subsidy, if there be one, applicable to fabric gloves is a matter on which the Department should be kept closely in formed, and, if and when information is obtained, perhaps I might communicate with the hon. Baronet.

Mr. THORNE

Has the hon. Gentle man seen the report in the newspapers that the German Government have inflicted a, levy on all industries for the purpose of subsidising these exports?

Dr. BURGIN

I have seen Press reports.