asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that French quota committees are refusing import licences to British textile firms in consequence of the restriction on French imports imposed by his Department; and whether these matters have now been adjusted to the satisfaction of importers in both countries?

I am aware that there have been difficulties of this kind. Steps have been taken to bring them to the notice of the French authorities and I trust that the difficulties will now disappear. As I stated in the reply which I gave on 7th December to the hon. Member for Central Leeds (Mr. Denman) substantial relaxations have been recently made in respect of imports from France. The goods affected include certain textiles.

Will my right hon. Friend consult with the President of the French Chamber of Trade in Paris on this subject?

He was here recently, and was in touch with my Department.