HC Deb 04 March 1941 vol 369 cc756-7
28 Sir Patrick Harmon

asked the President of the Board of Trade (1) whether, with reference to the Board of Trade Order which places all exports to Brazil, Chile, Colombia and Peru subject to licence, his attention has been called to the case of firms which have orders extending over prolonged periods and the limitation of whose business with those countries will mean inconvenience and loss; and whether he will consider such cases of hardship when brought to his notice;

  1. (2) whether in the cases of orders in hand for South American countries which will become subject to export licence and where such orders relate to goods which are in process of manufacture. special 757 consideration will be extended to the exporters to enable the orders to be completed;
  2. (3) whether he is aware that many firms in Birmingham and the Midlands have built up efficient sales organisation in South American countries with local representatives and travellers sent from this country, and whether in the case of those countries to which licensing regulations will apply, he can give a general indication of the extent to which export limitation will be imposed?

Mr. Lyttelton

I am well aware that firms in the Midlands and other parts of the United Kingdom have built up systems of trade in South America with great efficiency and success. We are, however, making more and more weapons and we can only use materials, productive capacity and labour on manufacture for export if the exports are necessary to secure indispensable goods. Exports to those countries must, therefore, be strictly controlled. I appreciate the need to give guidance to industries affected by the Order, and I am arranging to communicate information, confidentially, to Export Groups. While I am ready to consider special cases on their merits, I cannot undertake to issue licences automatically in the circumstances to which my hon. Friend refers.

Sir P. Hannon

Will my right hon. Friend keep in touch with the Associated Chambers of Commerce so that certain exceptional cases can be considered when they arise?

Mr. Lyttelton

Certainly, Sir.