HC Deb 08 November 1949 vol 469 c110W
91. Mr. W. Fletcher

asked the President of the Board of Trade to what extent the export of British felts to Canada is being prevented by Customs and other duties.

Mr. Bottomley

It is impossible to say by how much our exports of felt to Canada would increase if the Customs duty and other duties (by which I presume the hon. Member means the antidumping duties) were modified.

Mr. W. Fletcher

asked the President of the Board of Trade what action has been taken by his Department to assist in the finding of markets for felts in place of that which was lost in Newfoundland as a result of her becoming a Province of Canada.

Mr. Bottomley

As a result of Newfoundland's becoming a province of Canada, exports of felt to Newfoundland (where for the most part our felts enjoyed free entry) are now, of course, subject to the Canadian duties. I would hope, however, that the altered exchange rate of the £ will now enable the United Kingdom manufacturers to compete effectively in the Canadian market and the services of the Board of Trade are fully at their disposal for assistance in this vital market.