HC Deb 31 July 1956 vol 557 cc1131-2
20. Mr. Sorensen

asked the President of the Board of Trade to what extent the import of umbrellas into this country has affected our own production and export of these articles during the past three years; and what representations on this matter have been made to him during the last year.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

Information as to total production of umbrellas in this country is not available and I have no evidence that production or exports have been adversely affected by imports. I have had no representations on this matter during the last year.

Mr. Sorensen

Is the President of the Board of Trade aware that in certain parts of the country, including my own constituency, where umbrellas are made, complaints have been expressed concerning competition with what are alleged to be much more cheaply produced articles from other parts of the world? In those circumstances, cannot the right hon. Gentleman give more information about repercussions on the trade?

Mr. Thorneycroft

If the hon. Member likes to put down a Question, I shall be quite happy to say what the trend in the imports of umbrellas has been, but I have not had any complaints during the last year.

Mr. Osborne

Will my right hon. Friend remember that imports to this country are exports of other countries, just as our exports are other countries imports?

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