Sir J. D. REESasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether German firms or firms of which German subjects are partners or directors are now allowed to trade under the same conditions as are applicable to British subjects in British possessions overseas?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLGenerally speaking the answer is in the affirmative. In this respect Colonial and Protectorate Governments follow the practice of His Majesty's Government. The importation of German dyes and dyestuffs is usually prohibited and certain articles may not be exported to foreign destinations, but these restrictions apply to all traders alike, and no restriction is imposed on German firms as such trading with the Colonies and Protectorates. There are also certain restrictions as to the payment of pre-War debts and similar matters imposed in virtue of the Peace Treaty. For the present, German individuals are not allowed to enter Colonies and Protectorates except under special permit from the Colonial Government, but any Germans, to whom such a special permit is granted, are permitted to trade in the same way as other residents in the Colony.