HC Deb 22 July 1943 vol 391 cc1077-8
58. Dr. Little

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will make arrangements whereby none of the material, such as clothing and footwear, required to meet the needs of the inhabitants of the United Kingdom will, under any consideration, be supplied to a neutral State?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Trade (Captain Waterhouse)

Exports of clothing and footwear are under strict control, and the requirements of this country are fully taken into account in deciding what exports of these goods to neutral countries can be allowed.

Dr. Little

Things which are needed here ought not to go to a neutral State. I would ask whether, in face of the black market and smuggling, far closer supervision could be exercised regarding clothing, footwear and such things?

Captain Waterhouse

I do not think that smuggling comes within the province of my Department.

Professor Savory

Is the neutral country sending us any butter in exchange for this clothing, or has it put an embargo upon exports of butter for the last two years?

Captain Waterhouse

I would like to have notice of that question.