§ 5. Mr. Ellis Smithasked the President of the Board of Trade if he has considered the continued concern expressed to him by the National Society of Pottery Workers and the British Pottery Manufacturers at the growing competition of the Japanese pottery industry, its output, conditions of employment, rates of wages, earnings, etc.; and what action he intends taking.
Mr. H. WilsonYes, Sir. I am giving this matter very close attention. I am aware that the United Kingdom industry are concerned in particular about signs of the revival of the type of unfair practice familiar before the war. It is the 660 policy of His Majesty's Government to assist United Kingdom firms to make use of the legal protection now available in Japan against misuse or copying of designs and trade marks.
§ Mr. SmithDoes not my right hon. Friend think it would be a good arrangement if an advisory committee of a representative character was set up in those industries likely to be affected, so that they can get information?
Mr. WilsonI am prepared to consider that, but we are in close touch with the industries concerned, and if they can produce evidence of unfair production, or prices below the cost of production, we shall be very glad to inquire into them.
§ Mr. OsborneCan the Minister explain how hon. Members opposite can justify this type of demand for "feather bedding" of the particular industries in which they are interested after having condemned the alleged "feather bedding" of farmers?
Mr. WilsonThere is a big difference between "feather bedding" and unfair practices in the matter of imports from overseas.
§ Mr. LoganIn avoiding Japanese competition is it not possible also to see that less exorbitant prices are charged in the home market?