HC Deb 20 March 1952 vol 497 cc2534-5
21. Mr. W. A. Burke

asked the President of the Board of Trade the total value of woven cotton piece goods exported by the United Kingdom during the years 1950 and 1951.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

The total was £100,297,000 in 1950 and £132,192,000 in 1951.

Mr. Burke

Does the Minister realise that as a result of the decision of the Australian Government, one-fifth of these imports have now gone down the drain? What does he propose to do to help the cotton trade to recoup itself?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I am well aware of the effect of the Australian cuts on production of this character. The question is being considered at the present time, and discussions are going on with the Australian Government.