§ 43. Mr. LEVYasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that, in consequence of the prohibition of the importation of plumage imposed by the Act of 1921, foreign manufacturers of fabrics and of fancy shoes in. which this 835 plumage is used for decorative effect are able to enter the home market and world markets without any competition from British manufacturers; and whether he will consider amending the 1921 Act so as to enable British manufacturers to import the plumage and plumage waste necessary to the manufacture of these goods?
§ Captain EUAN WALLACE (Secretary, Overseas Trade Department)In regard to the home market, I am afraid that my hon. Friend has been misinformed, since prohibited plumage may not be imported into the United Kingdom in any form. As regards plumage required here for the production of goods for export, I understand that the importation of the varieties which are principally used in fabrics and on fancy shoes is not prohibited. In these circumstances the answer to the second part of the question is in the negative.
§ Mr. LEVYIs my hon. and gallant Friend aware that a bale of this particular plumage is still lying at the Customs quay, because its entrance into this country is prohibited; and therefore—
§ Mr. SPEAKERrose—
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. Member is giving a lot of information, but not asking a question.
§ Mr. LEVYIn view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply which has been given to my question, I beg to give notice that I will raise this matter on the Adjournment.