§ Sir W. EDGEasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that the import of light Japanese textiles into Colonies, such as those in Africa, which cannot, under treaty, impose countervailing duties has very largely increased as a result of the establishment of quotas against Japanese goods in those countries which have freedom of action; and whether he is contemplating any steps to protect British trade in the former territories?
Mr. M. MacDONALDI am aware that Japanese competition in textile piece 1387W goods is very severe in those parts of the Colonial Empire in which it has not been possible to introduce the quota system, but I am not prepared to say that the increase has been due to the introduction of quotas elsewhere. As regards the second part of the question, various international obligations are involved which are at present under consideration.