asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether the tea supplied to His Majesty's Army is wholly produced within the Empire; and, if not, whether he will ensure that only British Empire tea is purchased in future in order to support the Government's Buy British campaign?

All tea bought by the War Department for the Army and the Air Force is of Empire origin.

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office whether, in view of the case of Trooper Brown, 12th Lancers, which was brought to his notice on 23rd November, he will issue instructions that the initial telegram informing the next of kin of a man who is dangerously ill shall contain information of the nature of the man's illness or injuries?

The Regulations provide for the nature of the man's illness to be stated in the telegram which is sent to the next of kin when a soldier is reported "dangerously ill." It is regretted that in this particular case this information was not given in the telegram, though it was supplied by a letter sent on the same day.

In view of the long period of foreign service that this distinguished regiment is now undergoing, and the care that it takes to keep in touch with all their kith and kin at home, will the hon. Gentleman not see to it that these mistakes do not happen again when their men are away in hospital?

asked the Financial Secretary to the War Office how many Field-Marshals on the active list were employed and how many unemployed on 1st January, 1921, and on the same date in each succeeding year down to 1st January, 1931?

I will, with the hon. Member's permission, circulate the information in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the financial results of the past Scottish fishing season and the extent to which this has been prejudiced by foreign imports of fish?

The total catch of the Scottish summer herring fishings, to which I assume the hon. Member's question to refer, had a value of £921,000 in 1931 as compared with £1,269,000 in 1930, a decrease of 27 per cent. The total catch amounted to only 528,540 crans in 1931 as compared with 802,500 crans in 1930, a decrease of 34 per cent. The decrease was due to scarcity of fish on the grounds and not to the competition of foreign imports.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many organisations in Scotland have been approved by his Department under the provisions of Section 1 (1) of the Local Authorities (Publicity) Act, 1931; how many applications, and by whom, have been refused approval; and what is the general policy which he proposes to adopt in this matter?

One organisation—the Scottish Travel Association—has been approved. Application for approval was received from one other organisation—the Scottish National Development Council—but my predecessor in office was not satisfied from the information supplied to him that this body fulfilled the conditions prescribed by the Act. As regards the third part of the question, each application must be considered on its merits, and it is not possible to lay down any general policy.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland the number of shops in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee and Aberdeen which are exclusively engaged in the sale of imported butcher meat?

I regret that the desired information is not available.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that the public assistance committee at Montrose are imposing test work on all applicants for able-bodied work; that this is the only committee in Scotland to impose such a test; and if he will take steps to end this practice?

I am having inquiries made into the matter.

Is there a demand for versatile and able-bodied lawyers in Montrose?

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that Mrs. Wilson, 303, Thistle Street, Glasgow, when being paid her relief from the Greenock Public Assistance Committee has had her 7s. 6d. from health insurance taken into account, and that this practice is illegal; and if he intends to take any steps to prosecute in this case?

I am aware that Mrs. Wilson is receiving relief at the rate of 7s. 6d. a week from the Greenock Public Assistance Committee. I am having inquiries made as to how this figure is arrived at.

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that since 1st January, 1931, until 18th November, 1931, 23,000 cases have been taken for re-enrolment at the Glasgow Rent Court; that for the same date 4,000 decrees have been granted against tenants; and that in many cases decree is granted without the sheriff having heard the cases; and if, in view of the present winter, he intends to take any steps to deal with this problem?

I have made inquiry and I am informed that between 1st January and 18th November, the number of cases re-enrolled at the Glasgow Rent Court was 11,825. During the same period 4,030 decrees were granted, of which 2,733 were in re-enrolled cases and 1,297 in new cases. No decrees are granted without the sheriff hearing parties except in cases where the defender does not appear or is not represented or where the parties have arranged matters between themselves; as regards the last part of the question I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which was given to the hon. Member for Dumbarton Burghs (Mr. Kirkwood) on 24th November.

As the number of decrees is on the increase, will not the hon. Gentleman take some extra steps to deal with the situation?

The number of removals or evictions which follow the decrees is extremely small, and the decrees themselves are merely a method of getting arrears of rent paid.

I beg to give notice that I will raise the question on the Adjournment.

asked the Secretary for Mines if he will consider the advisability of setting aside a definite percentage of the proceeds of the miners' welfare levy for the purpose of creating a fund to supplement the provision now made for the dependants of the victims of mining disasters?

I have no power to direct the allocation of this fund. The duty of its allocation is vested in the committee set up for that purpose under Section 20 of the Mining Industry Act, 1920. The hon. Member is no doubt aware that an independent committee has recently been appointed to inquire generally into the work and the future scope of the Miners' Welfare Fund; and if he so desires, I will see that his suggestion is brought to the notice of that committee.

Would it not be better to divert some of the funds that are already existing, with no dependants now living, rather than to take money from the Welfare Fund?

Well, of course, that will not arise.

asked the Secretary for Mines the total cost to date of the committee appointed to deal with the coal mines amalgamation; and will he give separate figures for the chairman and each member of the committee?

The total expenditure incurred, up to the 30th November, in connection with the Coal Mines Reorganisation Commission was approximately £20,000. The amount paid to the chairman, including expenses actually incurred in connection with travelling and subsistence allowances on the Treasury scale, was £6,375. Three of the other commissioners received in respect of remuneration and expenses £858, £764 and £705 respectively. The fifth commissioner is serving in an honorary capacity.

Can the hon. Gentleman tell me for what period that is? Is it 12 months?

Yes. I think the actual work commenced in December of last year, and the figures that I have given the hon. Member are to the 30th November last.

Does the hon. Gentleman not think they are a little bit overpaid for the output?

On that, there may be many different opinions.

asked the Secretary for Mines (1) the number of mines closed down in Lancashire during 1930 and the number closed in 1931;

Sixteen pits, employing 986 wage-earners, were closed during 1930 and have not since re-opened. The corresponding figures for 1931 (to 21st November) are 18 pits, employing 3,490 wage-earners.

Can the Minister say whether he has made any investigation as to the cause of the closing of the pits that have been closed this year?

Before the hon. Gentleman answers that question, can he say whether, before they are closed, any questions are put to the Minister of Mines in regard to the closing of them?

Not necessarily, nor is information given as to the reasons why any particular pit is closed down.

The Minister has not attempted to answer my question, as to whether he has made any inquiries as to the cause of the closing of those pits this year.

No inquiry has been made as to these particular pits. Unfortunately, the experience to which I have referred is not confined to Lancashire. The number of wage-earners this year is less than the number last year. I do not think there is any direct association between this and the operation of the Coal Mines Act.

With reference to the hon. Gentleman's statement that the number of wage-earners has decreased, has the output of coal increased or decreased?

It has decreased in this year as compared with last year.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether he can make any statement in regard to the ratification of the recent International Labour Convention on the hours of work in coal mines?

Yes, Sir. At the request of His Majesty's Government, the International Labour Office is issuing invitations to the Governments of the six other countries chiefly interested, that is to say, Belgium, Czechoslovakia, France, Germany, Netherlands and Poland, to attend a meeting at Geneva on 7th January for the purpose of an informal discussion upon the question of ratification.

Does the hon. Member intend to be there to represent the Government?

Yes, it is my intention.

asked the Secretary for Mines what outside bodies or persons were consulted in the appointment of chairman of the Mines Amalgamation Commission; and whether any conditions were imposed by them?

I am informed that the Secretary for Mines in the Government of the day called into consultation a number of people whose experience and judgment would in his view be valuable. Such consultations are solely within the discretion and the responsibility of the Minister and are confidential. I am therefore unable to give any further information.

On whose invitation was Mr. Montagu Norman brought in to give advice?

I have already stated, at the beginning of my answer, that the Secretary for Mines in the Government of the day called in consultation a number of people whose experience he thought it would be advisable to have, but I am advised that without the consent of the Minister and the persons who were called into consultation, I cannot give any further information.

Is there any truth in the statement made by Mr. Shinwell that pressure was brought on him by the Governor of the Bank of England to appoint this particular gentleman as chairman?

Upon that, of course, I am governed by the answer that I have already given. There was a number of consultations, and, without the consent of the parties concerned, I cannot give the information asked for.

Is it not a fact that Mr. Montagu Norman butted into this business?

The facts are as I have stated.

asked the Secretary for Mines whether, in view of the recent low-temperature carbonisation plants erected on the Continent, using a British process, he will take steps to assist British coalowners to establish this industry in Great Britain, thus providing employment and profitably utilising small coal and producing clean smokeless fuel with the recovery of motor spirit and valuable oils?

I am following the development of this process, in this country and elsewhere, with great interest, but I cannot add anything to the reply which I gave on the 18th November to a question by the hon. Member for Spennymoor (Mr. Batey).

Has there been any advance at all in this matter in this country?

Constant advances are being made. This is primarily a matter for the business interests concerned; it is not a Government activity, except in the way of encouragement and assistance by way of research.

asked the Secretary for Mines the value of refined petroleum products imported into this country during 1930, and the value of refined petroleum products produced in this country for the same period?

The declared value of the refined liquid petroleum products imported into this country during 1930 amounted to £42,160,187, according to the published trade returns. Home-produced and home-refined petroleum productions were about equal to 30 per cent. of the quantity of the imported products. I am unable to give an accurate figure for the value of the home produced and home refined products, but it would represent less than 30 per cent. of the value of the imported.

Are the Government considering the imposition of a duty on these products to facilitate regaining the trade balance?

That does not arise on this question.

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he is satisfied that the publicity secured by the Empire Marketing Board in their Buy British campaign is proportionate to the cost involved?

Yes, Sir. The total cost to the Empire Marketing Board is expected to be about £12,000. My expert advisers report that the amount of publicity secured by this expenditure is so large and diversified as to render useless the professional standards by which they are accustomed to measure commercial advertising campaigns costing 10 or 20 times as much. I take this opportunity of thanking in the name of the Empire Marketing Board all those who have assisted this campaign, from the Boy Scouts and Girl Guides to the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition. Their generous and active support of the movement inaugurated by His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales has produced what is believed to be the greatest peace-time campaign upon a single theme ever conducted in this country.

Is it a fact that, in spite of all these efforts, sales have actually gone down?

No, and I am sure that no one will be more delighted than my hon. Friend to know that the reverse 1S the case.

Is it not the fact that the Buy British campaign is a serious factor in the increasingly adverse position of the sterling exchange?

I cannot answer that question, but, if the implication of my hon. Friend is against the Buy British campaign, then I will join issue with him.

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs what have been the results of the Buy British campaign?

Reports received by the Empire Marketing Board indicate that this campaign has literally pervaded the whole Kingdom. The Board are amply satisfied that the campaign, notably reinforced, as it has been, by the distributive trades, has effectively brought home to the country the patriotic duty of buying, so far as possible, the products of the home country in the first place, and, in the second, the products of the Empire overseas. The results of that achievement, which promise to continue long after the campaign is ended, can never be statistically measured. But ample inquiries made by the Empire Marketing Board in a wide variety of markets confirm what must, I believe, be the per sonal experience of Members of this House, that the public's will to purchase has by this campaign been directed to a dramatic extent towards home and over-sea sources of supply.

Has the right hon. Gentleman's attention been drawn to the fact that the right hon. Gentleman the Member for Epping (Mr. Churchill) sailed to America in a German ship?

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he will take steps to make known in the Dominions and Colonies the publicity in favour of their products secured by the present Buy British campaign?

The Empire Marketing Board, with the assistance of the over-sea Governments concerned, have long devoted careful attention to securing that their work on behalf of Empire products should be understood by those in whose interests it was primarily undertaken. Active steps are being taken and will be continued to keep the oversea Press in touch with the progress of the Buy British campaign.

Will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to see that British instead of American typewriters are used in Government offices?

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the large amount of fine china (safeguarded) which has recently been imported from the Far East, the volume of such importations will in future be taken into consideration instead of only the weight?

Particulars of the weight and declared value of china, including translucent pottery and all pottery known as china or porcelain, other than electrical ware, imported into the United Kingdom are regularly published in the monthly "Accounts relating to Trade and Navigation of the United Kingdom."

Can the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that the duty on china will be raised to 50 per cent. so that all pottery will be under the same duty?

At present the duty is on the basis of 28s. per cwt.

Will it be possible for the Board of Trade to consider a change in the duty from duty on weight to duty on value?

That would depend on how far the imports come within the definition of abnormal imports.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the heavier china is the cheapest, and that, therefore, if the duty is put on weight it will spread the duty more fairly?

May I press my question, and would the President of the Board of Trade consider receiving a deputation from the trade on this point?

I am finding it difficult to receive all the deputations that want to see me, but I need hardly say that my right hon. and gallant Friend has always a special call on my time.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury whether he will define more clearly what is meant by the terms overcoats and mantles in the Abnormal Importations (Customs Duties) (No. 1) Order, dated 23rd November, 1931?

I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the reply given to the hon. Member for Chorley on 2nd December.

Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that the word "mantles" has no longer any real significance in describing women's wearing apparel, and will he not take steps to cover every type of women's imported made-up garments, made from the cloth covered by the duty, in exactly the same manner as men's garments are covered?

I am afraid that I cannot add anything further to my previous answer.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury if, in order to remove doubts as to the interpretation and extent of the Abnormal Imports Regulations, he will state whether import duties are being charged on proofed garments and proofed cloth?

The Abnormal Importations (Customs Duties) No. 1 Order, 1931, excepts proofed garments comprised in the description "Overcoats and Mantles" from the charge of duty under the Order, but proofed garments, if any, falling within the description "Men's and Boys' suits," etc., would be chargeable with the duty. Tissues in the piece of a description included in the Order are not relieved from the duty by reason of being proofed.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury if, in order to remove doubts as to the interpretation and extent of the Abnormal imports Regulations, he will state whether import duties are being charged on toy teddy-bears, imitation pearl beads, Christmas tree ornaments, dolls' house toys made of glass, and mirror glass in wooden or metal frames?

None of the articles mentioned would be held liable to duty under the Abnormal Importations (Customs Duties) Orders, 1931, Nos. 1 and 2.

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will institute negotiations with foreign countries whose exports are affected by the Ab- normal Importations (Customs Duties) Act and the Emergency Customs Duties Bill to secure tariff reductions for British exports?

I do not consider that the emergency duties imposed or contemplated under the Measures referred to are suitable as a basis for negotiations of the nature contemplated by my right hon. Friend.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether greaseproof paper can be manufactured in this country in quantities sufficient to meet the normal home demand?

I understand that the manufacture of paper of the kind mentioned is being developed in this country, and I am making further inquiries as to the progress made.

Is it not a fact that it would take upwards of 12 months for paper manufacturers in this country to divert their machinery to the use of such paper, and that, if manufactured here, it would be inferior in quality for its purpose to that which is imported?

Always decry British manufactures! My word, we have got some people in this House. [Interruption.]

asked the President of the Board of Trade, in view of the fact that in paper trade circles tissue paper is always defined as paper of 7 pounds per ream, 20 inches by 30 inches, of 480 sheets or under, whether the qualification in regard to weight exceeding 10 pounds to the ream of 480 sheets, 20 inches by 30 inches, applies to tissue paper?

Any tissue paper falling within the terms of the definition contained in the Order is dutiable, but tissue paper the weight of which is equivalent to not more than 10 pounds to the ream of 480 sheets measuring 30 inches by 20 inches when fully extended is not liable to duty.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury if he is aware that silk and artificial silk hose are being imported without the seam sewn up the back of the stocking and that in this way the recent dumping Order is evaded by only paying duty on tissue; and what steps he intends to take?

I am not aware that unfinished stockings of silk or artificial silk are being imported without payment of the duty imposed by the Abnormal Importations (Customs Duties) Act, 1931. Such articles are liable to the new duty.

If the hon. and gallant Member will inquire in the West End of London, he will find that such is the fact.

Is the Financial Secretary not aware that there are many thousands of stockings not paying duty coming into this country?

If the hon. Member will give me information of any such goods, I will make inquiries.

asked the President of the Board of Trade the amount and nature of the products of the Dead Sea imported into this country during the present year; and to what countries were any re-exported?

asked the President of the Board of Trade the amount of the shipments of bromine and other products by the Dead Sea Company to this country since May of this year; and to what destination have these products, wholly or partly, been re-exported?

During the six months ended October, 1931, the only chemicals imported into the United Kingdom and registered as consigned from Palestine were 2,480 cwts. of bromine and bromides. No such imports were registered during the first four months of this year. I am unable to say whether these imports came from the Dead Bea Company, or to which countries all or part may have been re-exported.

asked the President of the Board of Trade the number of pounds of tea of non-Empire origin imported into this country in each of the years 1920, 1925, and 1930?

The total weight of tea im- ported into the United Kingdom during the years 1920, 1925, and 1930, consigned from foreign countries, was 57 million lbs., 65 million lbs., and 96 million lbs., respectively.

In view of the progressive increase in the imports of foreign tea, will not the Government consider the advisability of putting an import duty on foreign tea?

There has also been a progressive increase in the import of tea from Empire countries, and that now represents over 82½ per cent.

But is it not true that the percentage of foreign tea is now very much greater than it was 10 years ago?

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what action he proposes to take with regard to the communication he has received from the Empire tea associations in the interest of these associations, in view of the increasing importation of tea grown outside the Empire?

I have noted the representations made by the associations referred to but am unable to make any further statement at present.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware that the import of Dutch-grown teas has increased from 32,000,000 pounds in 1921 to 76,000,000 in 1930; and will he take immediate steps to impose a duty, in view of the fact that Holland imposes a duty of 7d. a pound on tea reaching her ports?

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that the imports of tea from foreign sources, having increased from 32,000,000 lbs. in 1921 to 85,000,000 lbs. in 1930, have resulted in severe loss to Indian and Ceylon growers; and whether, in view of the fact that ample tea for all Empire requirements is grown within the Empire, he will extend a measure of protection to Empire growers?

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the increase in the importation of foreign-grown tea into the United Kingdom and the correspondingly reduced imports from India and Ceylon, and with a view to improving the position of the tea producers in India and Ceylon, he will consider the advisability of imposing a tax on the importation of foreign-grown teas?

As I have already stated in reply to similar recent questions, I am unable to make any statement on this subject at present.

Has the right hon. Gentleman's attention been called to the large increase in these importations from Holland, especially during the last three years?

Yes, my attention has been drawn to it.

Will this matter receive further consideration in the month of April?

I shall be happy to answer that question then.

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the matter on the Budget at that time?

Will the right hon. Gentleman consent to receive a deputation on this question?

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the fact that Java tea is being blended with Empire tea and sold as Empire blend during the Buy British campaign, he will take steps to prevent the sale thereof under this misleading description?

If my hon. and gallant Friend will furnish me with particulars of the cases which he has in mind, I will be glad to consider them.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can give statistics to show to what extent the requirements of the United Kingdom and the Empire can be provided for by Empire-grown tea; and what is the percentage of Empire tea imported in 1920 and 1930 compared with the total imports for these years?

The quantity of tea produced within the British Empire is greater than the consumption of tea within the Empire, but the Empire does not produce tea of all qualities and flavours. Of the total imports of tea into the United Kingdom during the years 1920 and 1930, the proportions consigned from British countries were 86.9 and 82.3 per cent, respectively.

Does not that show a very large increase within that period of years, out of all proportion to the quantity used in this country?

asked the President of the Board of Trade (1) the values of ornamental glass imported during the months of August, September, October, and November for the years 1929, 1930, and 1931, respectively;

asked the President of the Board of Trade what is the total number of doors of foreign manufacture imported into this country for the most recent month for which figures are available; and what the figures were for the same month last year?

asked the President of the Board of Trade the amount of imported mohair-pile table covers for the last month for which figures are available, and the corresponding figures for the same period in 1930?

I regret that the desired information is not available, as the imports and exports of these goods are not separately recorded in the trade returns of the United Kingdom.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether seeing that the imports of brushes and brooms have considerably increased during the first 10 months of 1931 as compared with the same period in 1929, he is prepared to include this industry in the next list of duties under the Abnormal Importations (Customs Duties) Act?

asked the President of the Board of Trade (1) whether he is aware that illuminating glassware is usually made in the same works and the same furnaces as domestic glassware, and that the order, under the Abnormal Importations (Customs Duties) Act, which applies to domestic glassware only is likely to lead foreign manufacturers to concentrate upon dumping illuminating glassware, the imports of which have been steadily increasing; and whether, in view of these facts, he will include illuminating glassware in the next order under the Abnormal Importations (Customs Duties) Act;

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware of the abnormal importation of sheet lead and lead pipes into this country which is competing with the home industry; and whether he will consider taking steps to safeguard this industry?

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the imports of fancy cotton hosiery in 1930 were five times as great as the imports in 1928, and that imports of fancy woollen hosiery in 1930 were nearly twice as great as the imports in 1928; and whether he will deal with these imports under the Abnormal Importations (Customs Duties) Act, 1931?

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, seeing that a duty has been imposed on woollen materials in the piece and that no duty has been put on the finished article, such as bathing costumes, etc., he will consider the advisability of such a duty?

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the quantities of foreign cement imported into this country during the past six weeks; and, seeing that this abnormal import has brought to a standstill the cement factories on the Medway, with resulting loss of employment to a number of people, whether he will take steps to protect this industry?

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is now in a position to state whether needles will be included in the next Order issued under the Abnormal Importations (Customs Duties) Act, 1931, in view of the considerable increase in importations in the last two months?

asked the President of the Board of Trade (1) if his attention has been called to the recent imports of elastic webbing; and whether he proposes to take any action in this regard under the Abnormal Importations (Customs Duties) Act, 1931;

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has considered the telegram, of which a copy has been sent to him, from the bright-steel bar manufacturers to the effect that they ask for security against foreign competition and emphasise that, if included under the Abnormal Importations (Customs Duties) Act, they will raise no objection to a duty on their raw materials, including black bars and billets; and whether he will now impose the duties referred to?

asked the President of the Board of Trade if his attention has been called to the increase of the importation of artificial silk tissue, pure or mixed, in October, 1931, 1,741,624 lbs. weight, as compared with October, 1930, 1,322,844 lbs. weight; and if it is his intention to apply the Abnormal Importations (Customs Duties) Act, 1931, to these articles?

asked the President of the Board of Trade if his attention has been called to the abnormal increase of silk-piece goods, wholly of silk, imported in August, 1931, to 3,204,319 square yards from 2,789,177 in 1930; in September to 4,638,814 square yards from 3,391,646 in September, 1930; in October, 1931, to 3,743,044 square yards from 3,696,999 square yards in 1930, and 3,353,756 square yards in 1929; if he is aware that there are large stocks in Lyons unsold, and that the bankers are ordering the manufacturers to sell these stocks at any price available; and if he intends to bring these goods under the Abnormal Importations (Customs Duties) Act, 1931?

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he has received a communication from the Cold Rolled Brass and Copper Association, embodying details of abnormal imports of brass, copper and nickel silver articles with serious effect upon employment in Birmingham; and if he proposes to make an early Order extending the provisions of the Abnormal Importations (Customs Duties) Act, 1931, to these industries?

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the competition from which the English paper mills are suffering at the present time, he will consider the extension of the provisions of the Abnormal Importations (Customs Duties) Act, 1931, to include printing paper, news paper and writing paper in addition to the categories of paper stated in the No. 2 Order annexed to the said Act?

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, having regard to the economic position of the iron and steel industry as reflected in the financial reports of its operation now becoming available, he will take action before Christmas, under the Abnormal Importations (Customs Duties) Act, to prevent forestalling of the effect of more permanent measures?

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that 250,000 dozen felt-hat hoods from Monza, Italy, have been imported into this country during the last few weeks, the bulk of which were sent by parcel post to avoid the figures appearing in the Trade and Navigation Returns; and, in view of this abnormal importation of felt hoods, will he reconsider his previous decision and impose a duty?

As the House has been informed on many occasions recently, it would not be proper for me to give any indication of what articles may or may not be included in any future Orders that may be made under the Abnormal Importations (Customs Duties) Act.

Does slot the procedure which the President of the Board of Trade has bad to adopt show the necessity of setting up a tariff commission?

Will the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that granite will be included in the next list?

In order to save the time of the House, will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to prohibit all imports?

Do not all these questions indicate a good deal of discontent with the Government?

May I ask when we may expect to get, a reply?

asked the President of the Board of Trade if it is the intention of the Government to protect the lace industry from foreign competition; and, if so, when the lace duties will be reimposed?

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the trade of scales and handle manufacturing in fancy timbers is now experiencing foreign competition; and, in view of the unemployment caused, will he consider taking such immediate steps as are necessary to safeguard this industry?

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that cotton yarn from the Continent is still being imported into this country in large quantities, underselling our own yarn manufacturers by 1½d. per pound; and what action does he propose to take to stop this competition?

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will take action to prevent the dumping of iron and steel products into this country at prices substantially lower than they are sold in the country of origin?

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will consider imposing a tariff on imported toys and games, seeing that the annual value of such imports exceeds £2,000,000?

The only powers I have to impose duties are those under the Abnormal Importations (Customs Duties) Act, and in this regard I must refer my hon. Friend to the answer given to the hon. Members for Barnsbaple (Sir B. Peto), Ealing (Sir F. Sanderson), and South-East Leeds (Major Milner) on 25th November.

Will the right hon. Gentleman keep in mind that these duties prevented the lace trade of Nottingham from being wiped out; and will he use his influence with the Cabinet to see that they are reimposed at, the earliest possible moment?

Will the right hon. Gentleman take steps to stop dumping as apart from abnormal importation?

Is the right hon. Gentleman prepared to receive a deputation from the industries concerned?

I have already answered a question on that subject this afternoon. With regard to the lace trade, the condition of the trade will, of course, be taken into consideration. As for the difference between dumping and abnormal importation, I am afraid I am not ready with a definition.

The previous reply, of which the right hon. Gentleman spoke, had reference to deputations from industries which do not want tariffs. What my hon. Friend the Member for Shettleston (Mr. McGovern) asked was whether he would receive a deputation from those who do want tariffs?

From my recent experience, I should say the time absorbed by deputations from those who do want tariffs is just as great as from those who do not.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can furnish figures which will show the imports of elastic cords, webs, braids, and fabrics in the months of September, October, and any successive periods in the month of November of this year?

During the months of September and October, 1931, the total declared value of the imports into the United Kingdom of elastic cords, webs, braid and fabrics not comprised under other headings, such as apparel, in the Import and Export List, was £20,088 and £24,160, respectively.

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will permit the importation into this country, duty free, of Swiss embroideries or organdies processed from grey cotton piece-goods made in and exported from this country?

asked the President of the Board of Trade if, when he is considering measures to check the abnormal importations of manufactured cotton goods commonly known as coloured cotton, he will, in view of the advisability of introducing some system to cater for British yarn sent abroad to be specially dyed, make provision for this?

These matters will be borne in mind if and when the occasion arises.

asked the President of the Board of Trade the comparative imports of- wire and wire products during recent weeks and during a similar period in 1930; and whether he will deal with this matter under the Abnormal Importations (Customs Duties) Act, 1931?

asked the President of the Board of Trade if his attention has been called to the depression in the wire industry; whether there are abnormal imports of wire and wire manufactures; and if he intends to take action?

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will take steps to prevent the abnormal importations of wire and wire products which can be manufactured in this country?

asked the President of the Board of Trade if, in view of the abnormal imports recently of wire and wire products, he will consider imposing a duty on these articles at an early date?

Particulars of recent imports of wire and wire manufactures of iron and steel will be found in the monthly "Accounts relating to Trade and Navigation of the United Kingdom." For the rest I would refer my hon. Friends to the answer given on the 25th November to the hon. Members for Barnstaple (Sir B. Peto), Ealing (Sir F. Sanderson), and South-East Leeds (Major Milner).

asked the President of the Board of Trade the total imports of hemp line and tow yarns, cordage, cables, etc., of hemp or like material under a quarter-inch in diameter, binder and reaper twine, and other descriptions, respectively, for November, 1931?

Particulars of the imports of these articles during November will be published on Friday in the "Accounts relating to Trade and Navigation of the United Kingdom."

asked the President of the Board of Trade the volume and value of the imports of women's shoes into this country for each of the past three months, as compared with the corresponding periods last year; and the export figures of such shoes for the two periods in question?

My hon. and gallant Friend will find particulars of the imports and exports of women's boots and shoes in the monthly "Accounts relating to Trade and Navigation of the United Kingdom." Figures for the month of November will be published on Friday next.

If these figures prove that there is a considerable reduction in exports and a considerable increase in imports, will the right hon. Gentleman give favourable consideration to this case in making further Orders under the Abnormal Importations Act?

I cannot make any statement in anticipation of the drawing up of the next Order.

asked the President of the Board of Trade the quantity of newsprint imported for the year ended December, 1930, from the British Dominions and from foreign countries; and the amount of coal which would be used in producing the foreign importation if produced in this country?

My hon. Friend will find detailed particulars of the imports of news printing paper into the United Kingdom during the year 1930, consigned from British and foreign countries, in Volume II of the "Annual Statement of the Trade of tike United Kingdom" for 1930 (p. 272). I have not the information necessary to answer the second part of the question.

If the right hon. Gentleman has figures for the imports, is it not a simple calculation to find out bow much coal would be required?

I am afraid we have no means of ascertaining that.

Will my right hon. Friend consult the newspapers about this matter before coming to a decision?

asked the President of the Board of Trade (1) whether, as far as figures are yet available, there has been greater abnormality in the quantity of imports of woollen blankets or of cotton blankets, stating the dates to which his figures refer;

Particulars of the imports of cotton sheets and cotton blankets are not separately recorded in the trade returns of the United Kingdom. I regret, therefore, that the information desired by my hon. Friend is not available.

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will state the total imports in tonnage and value of special steels during the months of September, October, and November, 1931?

Particulars of the imports of special steels are published in the monthly "Accounts relating to Trade and Navigation of the United Kingdom." The accounts for November will be published on Friday.

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will give, for the first 10 months of 1929 to 1931, the total number of foreign vessels cleared from British ports to other British ports, together with the net registered tonnage of the same?

The information asked for by my hon. Friend is not available, but for the whole year 1929 the foreign vessels that cleared with cargo at ports of the United Kingdom for other ports in the British Empire numbered 321 with a tonnage of 720,701 tons net, the corresponding figures for 1930 being 319 vessels of 697,512 tons net.

Does not my right hon. Friend think it desirable that this large tonnage should be carried in British bottoms?

So long as we can retain such a large proportion of our trade without any of these restrictions, I believe the shipping industry is prepared to continue its competition.

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the monthly statistics on iron and steel not being available until five or six weeks from the end of the month, and the desirability of the iron and steel industry keeping in close touch with imports and exports, he will consider making available his departmental statistics at more frequent intervals?

Particulars of the imports and exports of iron and steel are published monthly in the "Accounts relating to Trade and Navigation of the United Kingdom" on the tenth working day of the month following that to which the accounts relate.

Would it be possible for these figures to be made public to the industry concerned soon after the 10 days?

They are published with the general figures 10 days after the end of the month and are then open to everybody to read.

Is it not a fact that the figures are obtained in 10 days in the Ministry?

We cannot do it in a shorter period than of one month.

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what proportion of the beer, appearing in Government returns as imported beer without reference to the country of origin, is manufactured in the British Isles?

I would refer my right hon. and gallant Friend to the table on page 41 of the Second Volume of the Annual Statement of Trade for 1930, from which it appears that of 1,593,588 standard barrels of beer imported in 1930 1,564,512 barrels came from the Irish Free State and seven barrels came from other British countries.

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury if he is aware that a merchant buying dresses of silk content abroad pays 33⅓ per cent. on importing them into this country on the whole value of the dresses, whereas a private individual only pays on the silk content, and that this difference acts to the disadavantage of British traders; and what action he proposes to take?

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply which the Chancellor of the Exchequer gave to a question on this subject addressed to him by the hon. Member for the Clayton Division of Manchester (Mr. Flanagan) on the 26th November.

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that, in several of the large stores in London and the provinces in connection with the Buy British movement, large signs are exhibited with the words Genuine Macclesfield Silk,, whereas only one piece of the silk so exhibited was manufactured in Macclesfield and the remainder was of foreign origin; and what steps he will take to deal with such cases of misrepresentation?

If my hon. Friend will furnish the with particulars of the cases which he has in mind, I will consider whether action can be taken.

If the right hon. Gentleman will go into any of these stores, he will find that this is happening.