HC Deb 02 November 1937 vol 328 cc700-1
35. Mr. Turton

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that foreign textiles are being imported into this country bearing a label of foreign origin that is easily detachable; and whether, in view of the danger of such a label becoming separated from the garments and the origin being rendered unidentifiable, he will take the necessary steps to prevent these goods being insecurely labelled?

Mr. Stanley

There is no Order-in-Council requiring imported garments generally to be marked at the time of importation, but certain descriptions of imported garments are required to be marked at the time of sale or exposure for sale. Where the mark is given on a tab, it must be sewn to the garment. I am sending my hon. Friend copies of the relevant Orders-in-Council. With regard to the second part of the question, if my hon. Friend will furnish me with particulars of any infringement of this requirement, I will gladly consider what action can be taken.

36. Mr. Turton

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that foreign imported pull-overs are being retailed at a price of 6d. each; and whether he will take the necessary steps to secure that those employed in the British textile industry are protected from this uneconomic competition?

Mr. Stanley

The reply to the first part of the question is in the negative. With regard to the second part of the question, it is open to any industry affected by foreign competition to make an application for increased protection to the Import Duties Advisory Committee.

Mr. Turton

May I show my right hon. Friend one of these garments, which I have here?

Mr. Stanley

I shall certainly be glad of any information which my hon. Friend cares to put before me. From inquiries I have made, I have not yet been able to trace a price as low as this.