HC Deb 01 July 1947 vol 439 cc1145-6
62. Mr. Stanley Prescott

asked the President of the Board of Trade what quantity of cotton cloth is being imported from Japan; what is the reason for such importation; and on what basis it will be distributed.

Mr. Belcher

Sixty-four million yards of grey cotton cloth is being imported from Japan for finishing in the United Kingdom and re-export to certain Empire territories. The purpose is to help satisfy the needs of those territories. The cloth is being offered to the converters who normally trade with those countries in proportion to their previous trade.

Mr. Prescott

Is this cloth to be paid for; and, if so, on what basis?

Mr. Belcher

The cloth will be paid for, but I am afraid I cannot say on what basis unless a separate Question is put down. I anticipate it will be paid for in dollars

Mr. W. Fletcher

Does the figure include cotton cloth imported for conversion in Hong Kong?

Mr. Belcher

This is cotton imported for conversion in this country for re-export to the Colonies.

Mr. Prescott

Did the hon. Member say it would be paid for in dollars?

Mr. Belcher

I said I could not give a conclusive answer on that subject. I believe it will be in dollars, but the hon. Member must not take that as official.