HC Deb 28 January 1954 vol 522 cc1953-4
38. Mr. H. Wilson

asked the President of the Board of Trade why an export licence was recently refused by his Department for the shipment to China of electrical-generating sets, supplied for use with cinematograph-projection equipment

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

Electrical generating sets of all sizes are regarded by us and our allies as falling within the terms of the United Nations Resolution of May, 1951, and their export to China is accordingly prohibited.

Mr. Wilson

Does not this case, relating specifically to a set for use in cinemas, show that the export controls are now being operated with excessive rigidity?

Mr. Thorneycroft

These lists are drawn up in categories, and not with use purposes.

Mr. Beswick

Has the President made any representation to the United States about redrawing these categories?

Mr. Thorneycroft

These categories are always under examination.

42. Mr. Forman

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will have the security ban lifted on the export of British locomotives to the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics and China

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

There is no ban on the export of locomotives to the Soviet Union, although exports are subject to control. In the case of China, the ban must at present remain in force, in accordance with our obligations under the United Nations Additional Measures Resolution of 18th May, 1951.

Mr. Rankin

Why should we be handcuffed in this matter when the American Administration is already turning its eye towards the development of more trade with China?

Mr. Thorneycroft

There is no truth whatever, as I said in answer to an earlier allegation, that we are under a disability relative to the United States of America.

Mr. Jay

In the case of China, as there has now been no fighting in Korea for months past, is there not a case for a major relaxation? Will the President do something in that direction?

Mr. Thorneycroft

No, I do not think there is a case for a major relaxation in the case of China, although all these matters are under constant examination. The Question relates solely to the export of locomotives.

Several Hon. Members rose

Mr. Rankin

On a point of order. In view of the statement which the right hon. Gentleman made in reply to my supplementary question, I want to ask, through you, Mr. Speaker, whether he is aware that China is collecting more dollars than any other country in the Far East?

Mr. Speaker

The hon. Member is abusing a point of order. There is no question of order about China that I can see.

Mr. E. Fletcher

In view of the totally unsatisfactory replies of the President of the Board of Trade to the whole of these Questions about trade with China, I give notice that I shall take the earliest opportunity of raising the matter on the Adjournment.