34. Duchess of ATHOLLasked the President of the Board of Trade what restrictions, if any, exist on the entry of wool of black-faced sheep into foreign markets?
§ Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLEI am not aware of any special restrictions relating to wool of black-faced sheep, but import permits are required for wool of all kinds in Austria, Denmark, Estonia, Italy, Lithuania, Rumania and Switzerland, and quotas are in existence in Poland and Spain. In Turkey the importation of all raw wool, other than merino, is prohibited. Exchange restrictions affect the importation of wool in common with other commodities in a number of other countries.
§ Sir HUGH O'NEILLIn view of the great importance of a fair price for this commodity to farmers in Scotland and Northern Ireland, will the hon. and gallant Gentleman do his best to see that foreign Governments do not restrict the import unduly?
§ Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLEYes, Sir. In point of fact, by trade negotiations with a number of the countries referred to, we have been able to assist the wool trade, and we shall certainly continue to bear that point in mind.
Duchess of ATHOLLWill my hon. Friend bear in mind also the great difficulty that breeders of black-faced sheep are experiencing in selling their wool abroad?
§ Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLEYes, Sir, that point also will be borne in mind.