§ 39. Mr. Dodds-Parkerasked the President of the Board of Trade when he will relax the restrictions on import licences, which prevent new firms from developing activities overseas.
§ The President of the Board of Trade (Sir Stafford Cripps)I assume that the hon. Member has in mind the issue of import licences to new importers. In those cases in which goods can be imported under an open general licence, there is no limitation and the goods can be imported by anyone. When goods can be 1389 imported only under individual licence, the grant of licences to new importers must depend, in general, on the total value of such goods we can afford to import.
§ Squadron-Leader FlemingWhen considering this matter, would my right hon. and learned Friend consider the privileged case of the ex-Serviceman who is looked upon as a new importer although he is experienced in that business and wants to start business "on his own"? Would he consider relaxing restrictions on account of such ex-Servicemen?
§ Sir S. CrippsI have to bear all these matters in mind, of course, but one must not be unfair to the old importers.