HC Deb 11 July 1916 vol 84 cc211-2W
Sir G. TOULMIN

asked the Secretary of State for India what were the exports of raw cotton from India during the last prewar year and the principal purchasing countries; what were the exports in the most recent recorded period and the purchasing countries; and what endeavours are being made to secure the growth in India of cotton of a staple suitable for Lancashire mills?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

Efforts are being made to increase the cultivation of long stapled cotton where this is possible, and I shall be glad to place at the disposal of the hon. Member Papers showing what is being done.

The Exports of Raw Cotton from British India in 1913–14 and 1915–16 were as follows:—

— 1913–14(1). 1915–16(2)
Cwts. Cwts.
United Kingdom 384,914 823,502
Germany 1,688,070 Nil.
Belgium 1,133,083 Nil.
France 524,264 203,707
Spain 166,933 237,061
Italy 848,576 1,097,138
Austria-Hungary 747,041 Nil.
China 194,288 381,074
Japan 4,817,560 5,913,981
Other Countries 121,583 149,853
(1) Ending 31st March, 1914.
(2) Ending 31st March, 1916.