§ 25. Mr. Yorkasked the President of the Board of Trade the total value of electricity-generating equipment exported during each month January, February, March and April, 1947; and when the export of this equipment is likely to cease until home requirements are met.
§ Sir S. CrippsThe value of electrical generators of more than 200 K.W. capacity exported during January, February, March and April, 1947, totalled respectively £402,212, £437,241, £166,524 and £692,239. It would not be practicable to divert current export orders to home use but arrangements have been made to give preference to orders for home power plants.
§ Sir Waldron SmithersWhy is it necessary to export what are really raw materials without which we cannot produce goods for export at competitive prices?
§ Sir S. CrippsThese particular articles are not suitable for the home market. They have been made for export orders.
§ Mr. YorkIs the export of these amounts of equipment holding up the erection of any plant in this country?
§ Sir S. CrippsNo, Sir, they are in fact expediting it, because they are clearing factories of export orders to make them available for others.