HC Deb 21 October 1946 vol 427 c1315
85. Mr. W. Fletcher

asked the President of the Board of Trade the total value of exports to Belgium during the first six months of this year; and the total value of imports from that country during the same time.

Sir S. Cripps

The total value of exports to Belgium during the period January-June, 1946, was £14,579,000, the corresponding figure for imports being £3,860,000.

Mr. Fletcher

In view of the very great gap between imports from Belgium and exports to that country, would the Minister consider allowing a certain proportion of these highly desirable goods now going to Belgium to remain in this country for the use of people in this country? The adverse balance really calls for some comment.

Sir S. Cripps

I do not think so.

86. Mr. W. Fletcher

asked the President of the Board of Trade the total value of exports to the Belgian Congo during the first six months of this year; and the total value of imports from that country during the same time.

Sir S. Cripps

The total value of exports to the Belgian Congo during the first six months of this year was £1,378,000, the corresponding figure for imports being £4,829,000.