§ 62. Mr. Randallasked the President of the Board of Trade what are the reasons for the decline of export of cotton manufactures to the Canadian market in December.
§ Mr. J. EdwardsShort-term fluctuations in particular exports are often difficult to account for. I am glad to say that, notwithstanding the disappointing figure for December, the monthly rate of export of cotton piece goods to Canada for the whole of the second half of 1948 was nearly double that of the first half, and so was that for January, 1949.
§ 65. Mr. Harrisonasked the President of the Board of Trade if, in view of the complaints that many British products fail to be offered at competitive prices on the Canadian market, he will publish a table showing how the prices at which such products could be offered by British 29W manufacturers compare with Canadian market prices for the same products, and indicating the effect on the British manufacturers' prices of Excise and Customs duties.
§ Mr. J. EdwardsThe prices at which particular United Kingdom products are offered for sale abroad are a matter between buyer and seller. Canadian Excise and Customs duties affect the price at which United Kingdom goods can be sold, in some cases substantially, but I would point out that Excise duties only apply to a limited number of manufactures, and equally in those cases, to the home produced articles. Many United Kingdom goods, of course, enjoy a preferential rate of Customs duties in Canada.