HC Deb 05 March 1919 vol 113 cc444-5W
Major BARNES

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will publish a list of all materials which are now subject to control or licence either for import or export, and at frequent intervals with a revised list, so that the House may be kept informed as to the position in regard to these controls and licences?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

In regard to import restrictions I hope that it will be possible at an early date to issue a revised and consolidated list of articles affected thereby, and the work is now being taken in hand. When that list has been published it will be easy to publish subsequent amendments and additions as soon as they are decided upon. Lists of export prohibitions have always been and are still being issued at frequent intervals by the War Trade Department, the last consolidated list having appeared on 21st February.

Major HAYWARD

asked the President of the Board of Trade, if a prohibition has now been placed upon the importation of aniline dyes; and, if so, what steps have been taken or are proposed to be taken to control prices of aniline dyes so that the industries dependent upon these products shall not be prejudiced by the prohibition?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. While it is not proposed to control prices directly, the question of price will have to be taken into account in determining the policy of admitting dyes under licence. In this connection I may point out that the consuming interests have equal representation with the dye manufacturers on the Licensing Committee.

Major HAYWARD

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will now state in detail what articles of import are still subject to embargo, restriction or licence; and in the case of restriction or licence the nature of the restriction and the conditions on which licences are granted, and the names of the several persons or committees advising or consulting with the Board upon these matters, respectively?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

At present I have nothing to add to the answer which I gave to a similar question by the hon. and gallant Member on the 24th February last.