§ 41. Mr. L. M. Leverasked the President of the Board of Trade, in view of the recent rapid increase in imports of cheap goods from the Colonies, especially of rainwear from Hong Kong, whether he will now take steps to protect British manufacturers.
§ Mr. LowI am aware that some United Kingdom manufacturers are concerned about competition from low-priced goods from certain Colonies, but it would be contrary to the present policy of Her Majesty's Government to impose tariff or quota restrictions on imports from Hong Kong or any other Colonial Territories.
§ Mr. LeverIs the Minister aware that the British Rainwear Manufacturers' Federation has obtained possession of a gent's cotton gabardine raincoat which is landed in this country at 31s. 6d., and that the lowest price at which one like it can be produced here is 53s. 6d.? Will he take steps to deal with the situation by insisting upon the marking of goods according to their country of origin? Furthermore, if it is necessary to protect British industry, will he impose a quota?
§ Mr. LowI have already answered the second part of that question. As to that part relating to the marking of goods, I would refer the hon. Member to an answer given recently by my right hon. Friend, who said that it would not be in our interests as a major exporter of manufactured goods to require imports to be marked specifically with the country of origin.
§ Mr. P. WilliamsIs my hon. and learned Friend aware that the problem is one not only of "macks" but also of tax?