HC Deb 26 May 1936 vol 312 c1822
43. Mr. LOGAN

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the return to the Merseyside of the Elder Dempster shipping group; and is he now prepared to enter into consultation with the Liverpool Chamber of Commerce as to ways and means to restore the West Coast of Africa trade to Liverpool?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

The chief shipping services from this country to the west coast of Africa have always been maintained from Liverpool. As regards the second part of the question, I think this is a matter primarily for the commercial and shipping interests concerned.

Mr. LOGAN

Does the right hon. Gentleman not recall the various deputations which have approached him on this matter; and in view of this particular firm having come into the city, is it not possible to resume negotiations to get trade and workers together?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

For some time past, certainly for as long as I can remember, trade between the West African Colonies and this country has been effected through Liverpool.

Mr. LOGAN

But is the right hon. Gentleman not aware of what I am getting at in regard to palm oil and kernels and whale oil? There is a difficulty, and I am anxious to get business relationships established, so that we can have better trade.

Mr. RUNCIMAN

If the hon. Member will put down a question on oils, I will give him an answer.

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