§ Mr. ATKEYasked the President of the Board of Trade whether the Department of Import Restriction has authorised the importation of cotton embroidery from Switzerland to the extent of 35 per rent, value of 1916 imports; whether this is equal to £1.120,000 worth of this class of goods; whether he is aware that this is considerably more than the pre-war imports of any equal period, and that consequently no margin is left to encourage or assist the development of this new industry; and whether he proposes to take - any action in the matter?
§ Sir AUCKLAND GEDDESThe importation of cotton, embroidery from Switzerland is fixed at 50 per cent. of 1916 imports, representing 70 per cent. on a basis of value. My hon. Friend appears to be misinformed in his comparison with pre-war imports: in each of the years 1911, 1912, and 1913 the value of these was in excess of the present ration. I am not-prepared to take any action.
§ Mr. LAMBERTasked the President of the Board of Trade what are the principal articles which, by the action of the Board of Trade, are prevented free import into Great Britain, specifying the degree by which such free import is impeded?
§ Sir A. GEDDESLists have been published from time to time giving the information asked for by my right hon. Friend. I am now having these consolidated, and will send my right hon. Friend a copy as soon as possible.
§ Sir CHARLES HANSONasked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the further consideration he promised to extend to the import of olive oil, he is now able to state whether licences have been or can be more freely granted, thereby reducing the high price per ton of this imported commodity and enabling textile manufacturers to compete against foreign trade?
§ Sir A. GEDDESA general licence has now been issued for the importation of olive oil.