§ Mr. Harold Daviesasked the President of the Board of Trade if he will make a statement about the importation of raw silk from Japan; and what policy his Department is going to take to stop supplies from Japan injuring our own silk production.
§ Sir S. CrippsSupplies of raw silk available in Japan are understood to be much below prewar levels. It is hoped to send a representative to Japan to report on the position as soon as conditions permit. For currency and balance of payments reasons, no silk tissues are at present being imported except for certain bolting cloths, of which there is not sufficient production in this country. Moreover, all imported silk goods are subject to a customs duty.