74. Mr. Baldwinasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that the recent decision to import silvered sheets and plate glass is viewed with alarm by glass manufacturers; and, as the decision is a breach of a pledge given during the war that continental imports at uneconomical prices which were allowed before the war would not again be permitted, if he will reconsider the matter and revoke the decision to import.
§ Sir S. CrippsI have no knowledge of a pledge such as is referred to by the hon. Member. I am not prepared to revoke the decision to import silvered sheet and plate glass under the Token Import arrangements announced in the House on 8th April last. Imports will, however, be260W restricted to sizes and shapes in current use for utility furniture and, as they are at present limited to 20 per cent. by value of the prewar imports from the countries concerned, I cannot agree that United Kingdom manufacturers have any cause for alarm.