HC Deb 12 April 1951 vol 486 cc1174-5
30. Mr. Russell

asked the President of the Board of Trade what steps he is taking to arrest the decline which has taken place in the last few years in the pro portion of imports of raw materials and manufactured goods which come from Empire countries as compared with foreign countries.

Mr. Bottomley

The proportion, by value, of imports from the Commonwealth of raw materials and manufactured goods together was higher in 1949 and 1950 than in any of the previous eight years except 1946.

Mr. Russell

Is the hon. Gentleman quite certain that it was higher in 1949–50 than in the previous years? Surely it has gone down steadily since 1945?

Mr. Bottomley

No, Sir. In 1945 it was exceptional, but although it has gone down a little in percentage it has gone up in volume.