asked the President of the Board of Trade if his attention has been called to the declaration of the Austin Motor Company of a dividend of 100 per cent. on their ordinary shares for the year ended 31st July, 1931; and whether this company has made an appeal for an extension of the protection already given to the motor industry?

I am aware of the declaration of the dividend in question, but have no knowledge of any such appeal for an increase in duty as the hon. Member refers to.

Has the right hon. Gentleman received any appeal for an increase in the protective duties from the workers of this firm, who suffered a reduction of wages during the same period?

I do not know what happened when my predecessor was at the Board of Trade, but I have not received any appeals for any increase.

On a point of Order.

There clearly is no point of Order.

I wish to ask you, Sir, whether the hon. Gentleman, who has referred to a reduction of wages, makes himself responsible for the question?

It is signed by the firm.