HC Deb 23 March 1948 vol 448 cc2769-70
67. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he can give the amount of china clay exported in 1938 and 1947; and the charge made for china clay in 1938 and 1947.

Mr. Bottomley (Secretary for Overseas Trade)

The quantity of china clay exported in 1938 was 367,000 tons and in 1947, 249,000 tons. The corresponding values were £696,000 and £1,028,000.

Mr. Ellis Smith

In view of the longterm need of the pottery industry, is it considered advisable to encourage the export of china clay?

Mr. Bottomley

Anything which encourages exports is a desirable thing.

Mr. Ellis Smith

It seems like it.