HC Deb 30 November 1948 vol 458 c168W
70. Mr. Baldwin

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the delay in permitting London merchants to trade in sisal, whilst local sellers in Tanganyika are now free to deal with foreign buyers, is leading to loss of business in the London market and is damaging to entrepôt trade, perhaps permanently.

Mr. Bottomley

Before the London merchants could be permitted to trade in sisal, it was necessary to ensure the proper disposal of Government stocks both in this country and abroad. I am now satisfied that adequate arrangements can be made and merchants are being authorised to deal in East African sisal on and after tomorrow, 1st December.