asked the President of the Board of Trade what official representations have been made to the Argentine Government about its discriminating against this country in granting exchange for imports of English produced specialised industrial fabrics.

I have not received reports from traders about specialised industrial fabrics on which representations could be based, but I will look into the matter if the hon. Member will let me have detailed information. His Majesty's Government have been exerting constant pressure on the Argentine authorities to secure the issue of import licences for United Kingdom products on a satisfactory and equitable basis. This will continue to be one of our main objectives in the current trade negotiations.

Is not the President aware that the Argentine Government have granted exchange for French, German and even Austrian paper felt makers, and can he assure the House that the granting of exchange for specialised British industrial cloths will not be prejudiced by any negotiations going on now regarding exchange for meat?

I am well aware of the unsatisfactory position in granting licences for many of our exports to the Argentine, but, as I have said, the purpose of these negotiations is to improve facilities for licences for our manufacturers.