§ 8. Mr. Nabarroasked the President of the Board of Trade what further conversations have been had by his Department with the Government of New Zealand concerning import restrictions upon British goods entering New Zealand; what relaxations have been achieved since last summer; and what effect these have had upon exports of British manufactured carpets, notably carpets manufactured in Kidderminster.
§ Mr. MaudlingWe are in frequent touch with the Government of New Zealand about their import restrictions. They have recently announced certain relaxations which will allow more imports in total in 1960 than in 1959. The quota for carpets will remain the same but, as orders outstanding since before the restrictions were introduced have been worked off, the whole quota will be available for new business.
§ Mr. NabarroHas my right hon. Friend observed that the Prime Minister of New Zealand—a freeman of the Borough of Kidderminster—Mr. Walter Nash, arrived in London this morning? I sent him a greetings telegram of warm welcome, drawing his attention to this Question. Would not my right hon. Friend take this unique opportunity to discuss with Mr. Walter Nash the complete removal of all import restrictions on Kidderminster carpets entering New Zealand, thereby enabling this Kidderminster-born Commonwealth statesman to assist the carpet weavers in the town of his origin?
§ Mr. MaudlingOnce again, I shall take note of what my hon. Friend has said. I am sure that the name "Kidderminster" is written on Mr. Walter Nash's heart as it is now graven on the heart of the House of Commons.