HC Deb 02 July 1942 vol 381 c512
63. Mr. Hammersley

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can make a statement with reference to the stocks of cotton piece goods originally intended for the Dutch East Indies and now lying idle in Manchester warehouses?

Mr. Harcourt Johnstone (Secretary, Department of Overseas Trade)

No, Sir, but I understand that negotiations are proceeding satisfactorily.

Mr. Hammersley

Will the hon. Gentleman inform the House under what powers the Board of Trade is preventing the owners of cargoes from disposing of them?

Mr. Johnstone

Under the powers under which it issues export licences.

Mr. Hammersley

When do you expect a definite decision?

Mr. Johnstone

I think the hon. Member has been informed privately that there is a meeting to-day between the interested parties, and we hope that negotiations will be concluded very rapidly.