CO129-554-7 British Empire and China Trade Fair 14-5-1935 - 23-10-1935 — Page 66

MWS.

E.

Parliamentary Questions.

HONGKONG

EXHIBITION.

68

•

12194/35.

www

20th May, 1935.

6.

Mr. Chorlton. To ask the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department, to what extent his department is participating in the British trade fair in Hongkong in December; and whether it is proposed to hold a similar exhibition in Shanghai, with a view to extending British trade in Central and Northern China. (Monday 20th May).

Lieut.-Colonel J. Colville (Secretary, Department of Overseas Trade): The Department of Overseas Trade does not propose to arrange an exhibit at the British Empire and China Trade Fair, but His Excellency the Governor has accepted the position of patron and His Majesty's Consul-General and the Trade Commissioner have been authorised to accept honorary positions as members of the council of the Fair. I am not aware of any proposal to hold a similar exhibition in Shanghai.

Mr. Chorlton: Will the hon. and gallant Member tell me why we decided not to have a stand there? It is so important for trade in the East.

Lieut.Colonel Colville:

On the ground of expense.

12253/35.

23rd May, 1935.

32. Mr. Chorlton. - To ask the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department, if he will reconsider his decision not to exhibit at the British Empire China Trade Fair at Hong Kong on a basis of contributions made by the industries concerned in this Country; and, if so, what would be the amount of the contributions required.

The Secretary for Mines (Mr. Ernest Brown): I have been asked to reply. If representative sections of the industries of this country interested in trade with China approach my hon. and gallant Friend with concrete suggestions for the organisation of a United Kingdom exhibit, he will be glad to consider them. It would be necessary for the exhibitors

to pay the cost involved, the amount of which would depend upon the extent of their participation. There is, of course, nothing to prevent interested firms from applying for space individually direct to the organisers.

Mr. Chorlton: May I ask if the Department will contribute also?

Mr. Brown: That is a special question which had better be put down.