asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is going to appoint an advisory committee representing the London textile trade to advise him on the administration of the Silk Duties, and particularly the drawbacks for the port of London; and whether a testing office is to be opened for the London area?

Mr. GUINNESS:

I am informed that various trade committees are already in existence for the purpose of considering various aspects of the Silk Duties, and the Customs are in closest touch with them. This arrangement is working satisfactorily and, as at present advised, I see no reason for any more formal machinery. As regards the last part of the question, any analysis of silk goods that may be necessary for official purposes will be carried out at the Government laboratory, and no new testing office will be opened.

Is it not proposed to set up an advisory committee in Manchester, and a special testing office there; and is not London still the largest port in the Kingdom, and entitled to equal treatment with Manchester and other textile centres?

Mr. GUINNESS:

I should like notice of the question about Manchester. I do not know whether any decision has been come to.

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Chancellor of the Exchequer promised to appoint such a committee for Manchester?

Mr. GUINNESS:

I am not aware of that. I understood him to say that the matter was under consideration.

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Chancellor of the Exchequer did promise an advisory committee, that a committee has been appointed in Manchester, and that in an important centre like Bradford no committee has been appointed, and merchants and manufacturers are asking when it will be appointed?