HC Deb 12 July 1956 vol 556 cc561-2
3. Mr. Holt

asked the President of the Board of Trade what raw material imports from European countries are still restricted by quota.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

Pulp and paper making materials and leather.

Mr. Holt

In view of the fact that most European countries have now liberalised to 100 per cent. on raw materials, and even France has done so to 96 per cent., is it not entirely deplorable that this country has liberalised only to just over 80 per cent.?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I do not think it is deplorable. I think our record in liberalisation in Europe has been a good one. These quota restrictions have been imposed for balance of payments reasons, and are, of course, reviewed from time to time.