CONTROL OF IMPORTS AND EXPORTS ORDINANCE (Continuation in force)

3.53 p.m

The Minister for Commerce and Industry (Mr J. M. Jumabhoy): Mr Speaker, Sir, I beg to move,

That this Assembly, in accordance with sub-section (2) of section 1 of the Control of Imports and Exports Ordinance (Chapter 214), resolves that the aforesaid Ordinance shall continue in force for a further period of one year commencing on the 8th day of December, 1958.

Hon. Members will recall that this Ordinance was first promulgated iii 1950 and that it had a life of one year. Since then it has being extended from year to year and this will be the eighth occasion on which the extension of the Ordinance for a further period of one year has been moved.

The Ordinance gives the Minister powers to make orders regulating the import and export of goods. In keeping with our policy of placing the minimum restrictions on trade, these powers have been used very sparingly and most imports are placed on open general licence, while in general exports have been freely licensed. But it is still necessary to retain powers for maintaining export control of certain strategic supplies in order that we may meet our international obligations, as, for example, controlling gold dollar imports which is a necessary part of our policy as a member of the sterling area. Moreover, with the introduction of the principle of protection of local industry, the need for the continuation of powers to regulate imports and exports is imperative, particularly if a decision is made to confer protection by means of quantitative restrictions. The Trade Advisory Council has been consulted and supports this extension. Sir, I beg to move.

Mr Chew Swee Kee: Sir, I second it.

Question put, and agreed to.

Resolved,

That this Assembly, in accordance with subsection (2) of section 1 of the Control of Imports and Exports Ordinance (Chapter 214), resolves that the aforesaid Ordinance shall continue in force for a further period of one year commencing on the 8th day of December, 1958.