§ Mr. Parkerasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that there is a strong demand from canal companies for the import of low-compression slow-running heavy-weight engines for canal work; and whether he will reconsider his refusal to allow their import?
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Major Lloyd GeorgeThe answer to the first part of the Question is in the negative. Four applications have been received for licences to import semi-diesel engines of the type to which the hon. Member refers for use in canal barges; two of these have been granted and two refused. Several types of diesel engine of British make are available for the propulsion of canal barges, a large number are actually in use, and according to my information they are suitable for the purpose. My right hon. Friend is not, therefore, prepared to authorise the importation of foreign engines for this purpose except in special circumstances.