§ 12. Mr. Granville Sharpasked the President of the Board of Trade what are the present limitations to the import of loofahs; how present supplies compare with those obtained in 1938; and what increase is likely during 1949.
§ Mr. H. WilsonFor balance of payments reasons imports of loofahs are at present confined to the small quantities needed for essential industrial requirements such as filters for the engines of ships. Loofahs are not separately distinguished in the trade returns and I cannot supply figures comparing present imports with those in 1938. I see no prospect of licensing imports on a more liberal basis in 1949.
§ Mr. SharpIn view of the large quantities of expensive sponges now available in the shops, would it not be possible for my right hon. Friend to arrange for more loofahs in place of some of these sponges?
§ Mr. WilsonNo, Sir. In the main, further loofahs would have to come from hard currency countries, whereas sponges in the main come from soft currency areas. Therefore, to concentrate on sponges rather than upon loofahs is in the best national interests.