HC Deb 04 April 1951 vol 486 cc189-90
21. Mr. Erroll

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies why a ban was placed on the importation of Indian yarn into Cyprus during 1950; what was the estimated loss of customs revenue; and how much more the Cyprus consumer had to pay for yarn from other sources.

The Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies (Mr. Cook)

This measure was temporarily adopted in Cyprus to encourage the spinning of locally-grown cotton, but has now been given up. It is not possible to estimate the loss of customs revenue in 1950. I am informed that there was no appreciable extra cost to the consumer in Cyprus.

Mr. Erroll

Is the Minister aware that if he takes the trouble to make himself better informed he will find that there is an extra cost to consumers amounting to £75,000?

Mr. Cook

I will forgive the hon. Gentleman for the first part of his supplementary. His statement is contrary to our information, which is that there was no appreciable difference to the consumer.

Sir H. Williams

As most of my hon. Friends do not identify the hon. Gentleman who is answering the Question, can we be told what constituency he represents, because we have never seen him before?

Mr. Cook

That is not very bright.