§ 74. Mr. Norman Bowerasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that British piano manufacturers are being handicapped in their efforts to export by 'reason of the fact that they are not allowed to manufacture for the home market, as a result of which their costs of production are kept unduly high; and how soon it will be possible to relieve them of this disability.
§ Mr. Ellis SmithMy information does not bear out the hon. Member's suggestion. I understand that the export orders received by the piano manufacturers require more labour and materials than are at present available. My right hon. and learned Friend is doing his best to assist the industry in these and other matters. As soon as the manufacturers are able to cope with the export orders which they are getting, the question of production for the home market will be reconsidered.
§ 75. Mr. Bowerasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that British piano manufacturers are un able to export to Australia because, owing to the sales tax, duty surcharge, etc., levied by the Australian Government, a British piano cannot be landed for less than £146, as against £93 which an Australian piano costs to produce; and if any representations have been, or are being, made to the Australian Government with a view to securing a reduction in these imposts and a better chance for British pianos in the Australian market.
§ Mr. MarquandYes, Sir. I am aware of the points mentioned and of the need for removing as far as possible the difficulties which British manufacturers are experiencing in the export of pianos to Australia. I had already asked His Majesty's Senior Trade Commissioner in 440 Australia to inquire into the question of prices at present being fixed for imported goods and have now arranged for a special report about the import of pianos.