HC Deb 05 March 1946 vol 420 cc176-7
52. Mr. Peter Freeman

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer for what purpose were the £1,648,000 undressed fur skins imported into this country from September to December, 1945; and whether he will consider prohibiting such articles until the exchange, position is more satisfactory.

The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Mr. Dalton)

To enable the international fur market in London to be reopened. I hope that, when this market is in full operation our receipts from the sales of furs and fur garments abroad will considerably exceed the cost of imported raw furs.

Mr. Freeman

Is it not a fact that artificial furs are being produced in this country which have all the advantages of imported furs, without the revolting cruelties associated with the fur trade, and would my right hon. Friend consider prohibiting that trade?

Mr. Dalton

No, Sir. I will not try to prohibit it at all. If there are any good artificial furs we will export them as well. We will export all we can get

Mr. Stokes

Does my right hon. Friend's argument in favour of dollars supersede that in favour of kindness to animals?

Mr. Dalton

The argument in favour of dollars is kindness to the British citizen.