Sir J.D. REESasked the President of the Board of Trade whether firms which ceased to import Swiss lace curtains in 1916 at the request of the Government in order to keep the money circulating in 510W this country are now refused licences to import such curtains, because this merchandise is only admitted on the basis of the imports of 1916; and, if so, why this discrimination is exercised?
§ Mr. BRIDGEMANIn order to arrive at the prescribed total ration it is usual to allot the allowed percentage to firms importing in the standard year. Exceptional rations, however, are usually given to regular importers who may not have imported in this year. If my hon. Friend will furnish me with the names of the firms concerned, I will see that their claims are considered.