HC Deb 16 December 1952 vol 509 cc1181-2
25. Mr. Orbach

asked the President of the Board of Trade what was the total value of imports of fashion textiles from dollar sources in 12 months to the last available date.

Mr. Mackeson

The words "fashion textiles" used in the hon. Member's Question have no precise definition. If the hon. Member has in mind women's dresses, imports under this heading from the dollar area recorded during the 12 months ended 31st October, 1952. amounted to £195,200.

Mr. Orbach

The Minister should be perfectly well aware of what I mean when I say "fashion textiles," because his office telephoned me and asked me what were the specific textiles which I wanted under that heading and I gave them the information. I want to know the dresses, mantles and piece goods which are imported from the United States or other dollar areas to this country. Does the hon. Gentleman think it necessary to spend on such production even a single dollar in view of our balance of payments problem?

Mr. Mackeson

The hon. Member had better ask his own Front Bench. I am not prepared to abolish the token imports scheme with Canada and America.

Mr. Orbach

I should be quite prepared to ask my own Front Bench if the hon. Gentleman and his friends would vacate the Government Front Bench in their favour.

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