§ 81. Mr. Sharpasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the recent restriction of imports by South Africa has resulted in the cancellation of contracts for the supply of British manufactures; what representations he has received on this matter; and what action he has taken and with what results.
§ Mr. H. WilsonYes. I have received representations from trade organisations and from a number of firms and industries who have goods on order or in production especially for South Africa, which they were unable to despatch for shipment by the operative date, 11th March. The Senior Trade Commissioner in South Africa was instructed to seek an extension of the period of grace beyond 11th March, but the South African authorities have not been able to accede to this request and such goods will accordingly require import licences. It seems reasonable to hope that the South African authorities will issue import licences in cases of hardship and the Senior Trade Commissioner has been asked to seek an assurance to this effect.