Major BARNESasked the Prime Minister if, in view of the widespread dissatisfaction caused by the present system of giving import and export licences to selected individuals, he would set up a Committee of the House of Commons to consider the necessity of these, and, if necessary, to issue the same?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI am not aware of any dissatisfaction with the system of granting import and export licences other than that bound to arise under any system of regulation. An advisory council, consisting almost entirely of unofficial members, is now sitting to make recommendations as regards the restriction of imports. A similar body exists in connection with exports. The Departments concerned are also in touch with other advisory bodies similarly constituted. Under these circumstances, the Board do not consider the setting up of such a Committee as is suggested in question to be necessary.