Sir J. D. REESasked the President of the Board of Trade whether any action will be taken to stop the at present unrestricted importation of German latch needles which is ruining the British industry built up during, the war for the purpose of providing the Navy and Army with warm knitted underclothing, and now giving employment to large numbers of our own people; and whether he is aware that the British manufacturers 1204W cannot produce this article at the price quoted in Germany, owing to the heavy rates, taxes, charges, and strikes with which he is afflicted?
§ Sir P. LLOYD-GREAMEI am aware that importers are offering German hosiery latch needles at prices considerably lower than those quoted by British manufacturers, and that though the actual quantities imported have not been large, the development of the manufacture in this country is being adversely affected. As I have previously stated, it is the intention of His Majesty's Government to introduce at the earliest possible date legislation dealing with dumping and key industries.