HC Deb 29 March 1938 vol 333 c1813
7. Mr. H. G. Williams

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been drawn to the fact that nearly 2,500,000 pairs of rubber footwear have been imported in the first two months of this year from Empire countries; and what steps he proposes to take to safeguard the interests of United Kingdom manufacturers against this competition?

The President of the Board of Trade (Mr. Oliver Stanley)

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. Imports of rubber footwear from the Colonies are accorded entry free of duty by the Import Duties Act, and free entry for Canadian footwear is provided for in the Agreement concluded with Canada last year. I am ready to give what help I can in regard to any proposals the industry may make for a trade arrangement with the other Empire industries concerning the marketing of rubber boots and shoes in the United Kingdom.

Mr. Lyons

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether there is any reciprocal free entry of this article manufactured in this country, into any one of the Colonies and Dominions?

Mr. Stanley

Perhaps the hon. and learned Member will put that question on the Order Paper.

Mr. J. J. Davidson

Does that mean that the President of the Board of Trade will not support the foreign heels?