HC Deb 12 February 1953 vol 511 cc592-3
42. Sir W. Smithers

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the fact that if imports are restricted exports are correspondingly restricted, he will now remove restrictions on imports.

The Economic Secretary to the Treasury (Mr. R. Maudling)

There is, no doubt, a connection between restrictions on imports and restrictions on exports. While it is our objective to work steadily towards removing import restrictions, we cannot at this stage afford any significant relaxation in imports.

Sir W. Smithers

Will my hon. Friend tell the Chancellor of the Exchequer that if he breaks the law of supply and demand, that law will break him and the people of Britain?

Mr. Maudling

I will certainly convey my hon. Friend's warning to my right hon. Friend.