§ Mr. K. Lindsayasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware of the restrictions on British books in almost all foreign countries and also in Australia and New Zealand; and whether in view of the fact that 50 per cent. of books imported by British publishers must be re-exported, he is taking steps to increase the export trade in books.
§ Mr. H. WilsonI am well aware that the import restrictions imposed by many countries abroad are hampering the export of United Kingdom books and this fact is kept in view in the course of the negotiations undertaken with other Governments to obtain a relaxation. There are no restrictions on the import of United Kingdom books into Australia but those produced in non-sterling countries and sold from this country are subject to licence. The condition referred to in the second part of the Question that 50 per cent. of books imported by United Kingdom publishers must be re-exported, applies only to fiction in English and to children's books. I am most anxious that the export of books shall be increased. There is close co-operation between the Board of Trade and other interested Departments and the book trade which is making every effort to develop sales abroad.