HC Deb 05 July 1888 vol 328 cc435-6
MR. SUMMERS (Huddersfield)

asked the First Lord of the Treasury, If he can give the House an assurance that the Government will not give its assent to any proposal which would have the effect of restricting or prohibiting the importation of cheap sugar into this country? also, What is the object for which the International Conference on Sugar Bounties has been summoned; who took the initiative in summoning it; and what are the advantages to this country that are expected to result from its deliberations?

THE FIRST LORD (Mr. W. H. SMITH) (Strand, Westminster)

In answer to the two Questions of the hon. Member, the House has been already informed that it will be placed in full possession of the proceedings of the Conference on Sugar Bounties before any legislation on the subject is proposed by Her Majesty's Government. It is evident that measures to restrict or prohibit the importation of sugar could only be founded on legislation. The objects of the Conference are fully stated in the Papers laid before Parliament, especially those entitled Commercial 2 and 3, of 1888.

MR. SUMMERS

My Question had reference to the action of the Government in giving their assent to any proposals.

MR. W. H. SMITH

The hon. Gentleman does not seem to be aware that the assent of the Government is not binding on this House.