HC Deb 28 March 1923 vol 162 cc539-40W
Mr. F. GRAY

asked the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies if he is aware that the Stevenson Committee, set up by the Colonial Office to consider the future of the plantation rubber industry, was composed of three Government officials and five planters, all of whom were known to be in favour of compulsory restriction of output by legislation; and if he will now agree to the appointment of a committee more representative of all parties interested in the rubber industry, manufacturing as well as planting?

Mr. ORMSBY-GORE

I cannot accept the hon. Member's view that the Committee appointed by the late Secretary of State in October, 1921, was composed of members who were all in favour of compulsory restriction of rubber exports. As regards the last part of the question, my Noble Friend has set up a Committee representative of the planting, manufacturing and other interests in the industry to advise him on matters connected with the Exports Restriction Scheme.

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