36. Mr. L'ESTRANGE MALONEasked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department what is the nature of the trade agreements just concluded by France with Belgium and with Germany; and whether, in view of the intention of the French Government to put a 15 per cent. ad valorem duty on imported footwear, the conclusion of any trade agreement between France and this country is now under consideration?
§ Mr. DOUGLAS HACKING (Secretary, Overseas Trade Department)An account of the provisions of the Franco-German Commercial Treaty appeared in the issues of the Board of Trade Journal for 1st and 8th September last (page, 233–4. 237–244, 263–4 and 266–277). As regards Customs duties, the treaty fixes the rates applicable in each country to a considerable number of articles of interest to the trade of the other. So also, I believe, does the Franco-Belgian treaty, which has only just been signed, and which I have not yet seen. No negotiations for a new commercial treaty with France are in progress, but I am always considering how best to improve our trade relations with that and other countries.
Mr. MALONEDoes the hon. Gentleman realise that this question seriously affects employment and trade in Northampton and will he give it immediate attention?
§ Mr. HACKINGI do realise it and the importance of the situation, and it is receiving our consideration.
§ Mr. HARRISDoes this country, under the Most-favoured-nation Clause, take advantage of the lower duties under these treaties?
§ Mr. HACKINGThere is another question on the Paper on that subject for to-morrow.