§ Mr. MACKINDERasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware that importers of blackboard chalks have been stopped importing these goods because they cannot give guarantees as to the percentage of synthetic dyes contained in these chalks, and the same quality and colours of chalks cannot be produced in this country; and will he inquire into the matter?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERI have been asked to reply. Coloured chalks of synthetic organic origin are subject to the provisions of the Dyestuffs (Import Regulation) Act, and no question of percentage arises. Ordinary white blackboard chalks are not subject to the provisions of the Act. No applications for licences to import coloured chalks of synthetic organic origin have been made for a considerable time past, and I understand that such chalks are made in this country in large variety and satisfactory quality. I have no knowledge of any complaints of the kind suggested in the question.