HC Deb 11 July 1957 vol 573 cc57-8W
27. Mr. McAdden

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been drawn to the marking of imports of men's wear as "Empire made" when, in fact, they have been manufactured outside the Empire, being merely finished in Empire countries; and to what extent under his Regulations such imports qualify for Imperial Preference.

Sir D. Eccles

I shall be glad to examine any evidence that imported goods are being marked "Empire" contrary to the provisions of the Merchandise Marks Act, 1926. Goods marked "Empire" do not necessarily secure the benefit of Imperial Preference.

28. Mr. McAdden

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that the sale of imported men's hosiery described as "Empire made" at prices with which the home trade cannot compete is having a detrimental effect on employment, particularly in the East Midlands; and what action he is taking.

Sir D. Eccles

There is a general shortage of skilled labour in the hosiery industry and I am not aware of any unemployment in the East Midlands which could be attributed to imports of men's hosiery.