HC Deb 01 November 1937 vol 328 cc525-6
60. Mr. Levy

asked the President of the Board of Trade the average price per ton of marine engines other than outboard which were imported into this country for use in registered shipyards during 1935, 1936 and 1937?

Captain Wallace

I regret that the precise information asked for is not available; but during the period January, 1935, to July, 1937, imports for use in registered shipbuilding yards represented nearly 90 per cent. of the total value of imports into the United Kingdom of marine engines, other than outboard. The average declared value of the total imports was £108 per ton in 1935, £97 per ton in 1936 and £85 per ton in the seven months ended July, 1937.

Mr. H. G. Williams

Has my right hon. and gallant Friend no explanation to give as to why, when prices are generally rising, the prices of these engineering products should fall so much?

Captain Wallace

I should like to see that question on the Paper.

Mr. Benn

Cannot the right hon. and gallant Gentleman do something to assist the engineering firms in this country who manufacture these articles by reducing, in some way, the cost of their raw material?

Captain Wallace

Perhaps my hon. and gallant Friend will wait and see the answer.

Following is the answer:

Figures are only available for years in which an inquiry into production was made by the Board of Trade and I regret that none are available for the years 1923, 1932 and 1936.