HC Deb 01 June 1938 vol 336 cc2066-7W
Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can state the quantities and values of imports of carved and worked marbles into this country from Italy for each of the years 1930 to 1937 and the total quantities and values of carved and worked marbles imported into this country for each of the years 1930 to 1937?

Mr. Cross

The following table shows the total quantity and declared value of marble, wholly or mainly manufactured (other than works of art), imported into the United Kingdom during each of the years 1930 to 1937, distinguishing imports consigned from Italy. Particulars of the imports of marble works of art are not separately recorded.

ment when he expects to include provisions with regard to the re-export trade in an agreement with Italy?

Mr. R. S. Hudson

The interests of the re-export trade are always kept in mind, but I regret that in present circumstances it would not be possible to contemplate making provision for payment for re-exports through the Clearing machinery, having regard to the severe restrictions on the export trade in United Kingdom goods which it has been found necessary to accept in order to maintain the solvency of the Clearing. It is, however, open to the Italian Government to authorise the purchase of re-exports from this country with such free exchange as they may have.