HC Deb 25 February 1919 vol 112 cc1619-20W
Mr. BRITTON

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the present action of the Department of Import Restrictions, in refusing to grant licences for the import of stiffeners from America, is seriously impeding the production of bootsin this country; and whether, in view of the fact that importers from America are now able to obtain shipping space, it is necessary any longer to continue to restrict the import into this country of materials, other than leather, required for the manufacture of boots and shoes in Great Britain?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

As a temporary measure stiffeners are being licensed to the extent of 250 tons. The question of admitting such goods freely is one of general policy which is now under consideration.

Mr. J. JONES

asked the President of the Board of Trade what imports, other than food, are still being excluded from this country or only permitted to be imported under restrictions; whether such exclusion or restriction applies to absolute raw materials, such as wood pulp and phosphate rock, as well as to articles partly manufactured, such as paper, and to finished products, such as hosiery; and whether he can state the reasons for such exclusion or restriction?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

The list of articles the importation of which is prohibited except under licence is a long one, but it may be stated generally that such raw materials as are at present on the list are being generously dealt with in the matter of licences. The whole question of import restrictions as regards both raw materials and manufactured goods is at present under consideration.

Colonel YATE

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he can state what restrictions have been imposed on the imports of hosiery from America and Japan in accordance with the arrangements agreed to at the recent deputation?

Mr. BRIDGEMAN

My right hon. Friend told the hon. and gallant Member at the deputation that no increase in the then existing rate of import of cotton hosiery would be sanctioned without consultation with the industry concerned in this country, and this undertaking has been adhered to.