§ Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLEasked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether in the interest of the promotion of Empire trade, his Department obtains explanations as to why large contracts, which can be fulfilled here, are often awarded by the Dominions and Colonies to foreign competitors; and, if so, what use is made of the information thus obtained?
46Wto Germany in that year was £37,120,000, and the total value of imported merchandise re-exported to Germany was £23,271,000. Information is not yet available as to the proportions of these imports, exports and re-exports which consisted of articles wholly or mainly manufactured, but in 1928 the relative proportions were 85 per cent., 68 per cent., and 14 per cent., respectively. I am unable to state what proportions may have been subjected to further manufacturing processes after importation into, or exportation from this country.