§ 34. Mr. Higgsasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that a large proportion of diamonds cut in this country are being sold for hoarding purposes; and can he see his way to divert supplies of rough stone to firms who are prepared to cut for export only?
§ Sir A. DuncanMy attention has been called to reports to this effect, and I am considering whether any steps can usefully be taken to achieve the object which my hon. Friend has in view.
§ Mr. HiggsWhile thanking my right hon. Friend for his reply, might I ask whether he is aware that the value of these finished diamonds, in this country is about £700,000 per annum, and that three-quarters of them are being sold on the black market?