§ 81. Mr. R. C. MORRISONasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the prices of boots and shoes have been advanced by 6 per cent. as a result of the increase in the import duty on dressed leather; and whether he will therefore reconsider the matter with a view to the reduction of the duty?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Dr. Burgin)I understand that some increase in prices of boots and shoes is taking place but my information is that this increase is due to a variety of causes of which the cost of the leather on which the duty has recently been raised is not one of the most important.
§ Mr. MORRISONWill the hon. Member keep a close watch and investigate further, and if he is satisfied that the increase is due to the duty, which we discussed in the House the other evening, will he reconsider the matter?
§ Dr. BURGINReconsideration of the duty is a matter for the Advisory Committee. I will keep a watch on the movement of prices, and perhaps the hon. Member will communicate to me any facts that he has.
§ Sir P. HARRISWill the Minister call the attention of the Advisory Committee to the rise in prices?