HC Deb 14 July 1949 vol 467 cc638-9
12. Mr. Piratin

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will give the total annual value of token imports from the United States of America, indicating the details; and say how these imports are allocated to British traders.

Mr. H. Wilson

For 1948, licences issued for imports from the United States under the Token Import Scheme totalled £525,142, of which the two principal items—apparel and footwear—accounted for £161,000. The Scheme covers more than 150 commodities, but if the hon. Member will let me know in which goods he is interested, I will let him have details. Each United States manufacturer is permitted by the Scheme to send 20 per cent. by value of his pre-war trade in the goods on the Token Import List. An import licence will normally be granted to any importer whose American supplier is entitled to participate in the Scheme.

Mr. Piratin

In view of this rather heavy amount of token imports—£500,000—would the Minister consider, especially at this stage, the question of ceasing these imports completely in order to save the dollars?

Mr. Wilson

No, Sir.

Mr. Piratin

Why not?