§ 25. Mr. George Craddockasked the President of the Board of Trade what expenditures of dollars have been incurred on the import of tobacco for the years 1954, 1955 and 1956, respectively; and what percentage this represents of total tobacco imports into the United Kingdom.
§ Sir D. EcclesThe c.i.f. values of the tobacco and tobacco manufactures imported from the dollar area, including Canada, in 1954, 1955 and 1956, were respectively £47.8 million, £55.6 million and £47.6 million or 62.7 per cent., 64.3 per cent. and 59.1 per cent. of total tobacco imports. The imports for these years included tobacco worth $8 million, 538 tinguishing in each case between Commonwealth and other dollar sources; and what proportion dollar imports are of total imports in these commodities.
§ Sir D. EcclesAs the Answer contains a number of figures, I will, with permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.
§ Sir L. PlummerMay I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he is satisfied that we are doing all we can to increase our trade with Commonwealth and non-dollar countries, and whether, at the same time, he is satisfied that we are not permitting political prejudices to overcome our economic needs for the importation of non-dollar raw materials and food?
§ Sir D. EcclesYes, Sir.
§ Following is the Answer:
§ $15 million and $12 million respectively acquired from the United States of America as dollar-free commodity aid.
§ Mr. CraddockDoes not the Minister agree that a careful study should be made of this problem in order that future expenditure can be increased in the sterling area?
§ Sir D. EcclesYes, Sir. We are constantly studying the problem.
§ 26. Mr. George Craddockasked the President of the Board of Trade what reductions he contemplates in the allocation of dollars for the import of tobacco from the 1957 crop.
§ Sir D. EcclesThis year's allocation has not yet been made.