§ 26. General CROFTasked the Prime Minister whether the Resolutions of the Balfour of Burleigh Committee in favour of Imperial preference and commercial treaties have yet been considered by the Imperial War Cabinet; and, if so, whether he can state what the policy of the Government is in reference to these proposals?
§ The CHANCELLOR Of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Bonar Law)The Imperial War Cabinet has unanimously 2726 accepted the principle that "each part of the Empire, having due regard to the interests of our Allies, shall give specially favourable treatment and facilities to the produce and manufactures of other parts of the Empire."
§ Mr. OUTHWAITEHow did they come to that decision when one part of the Empire was not represented?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe representatives who were present have come to this decision, which does not at present include Australia.
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI need not tell the House there is no intention whatever of making any change during the War.
§ Major HUNTDoes it apply to foodstuffs?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe resolution I have read leaves that question open. It does not involve the taxation of food.