HC Deb 12 July 1916 vol 84 cc351-2W
Major COURTHOPE

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether it is proposed to issue licences for the importation of foreign hops purchased under current contracts which extend over a period of years; and, if so, what is the total estimated quantity likely to be imported under this head?

Mr. HARCOURT

The answer is in the negative.

Mr. R. McNEILL

asked the President of the Board of Trade if his attention has been called to the fact that in the three weeks ending 5th July 14,328 cwts. of foreign hops were imported into this country, notwithstanding the promise given by the Government on 29th May that all importation of foreign hops would be immediately prohibited; if he will say why this pledge has been violated; and when it is proposed to make the prohibition affective?

Mr. HARCOURT

Some of these hops though credited to the three weeks ended 1st July were actually imported before the date (8th June) on which the prohibition came into force. The remainder had been dispatched to the United Kingdom before the date (1st June) on which the prohibition was announced, and were admitted in accordance with the usual practice.