§ 24. Mr. Ellis Smithasked the President of the Board of Trade, if his attention has been directed to the action taken by the U.S.A. economic administration which liberates their export trade from certain restrictions and allows permits to be applied for to cover the export of electrical and other machinery, tools, cutlery, etc., and that metals, industrial processes, etc., are now being released in preparation for post-war development; and what action is he taking to safeguard British post-war exports.
§ Mr. DaltonI am aware that the United States Foreign Economic Administration has recently made some simplifications in its export control machinery, but this does not necessarily mean that more materials or finished goods are being released for export. Arrangements have been made through the Combined Boards in Washington for the exchange of information between the United Kingdom and United States Governments regarding changes in their war-time production controls. As I have previously stated, every effort will be made to increase British exports, as soon as circumstances permit.
§ Mr. SmithDoes that mean that just as we have complete unanimity in the military field in regard to the conduct of the war among the United Nations, machinery has been built up so that we can have the same unanimity in regard to trade?
§ Mr. DaltonWe are working in very close harmony with the United States Government through these Combined Boards.