HC Deb 14 February 1933 vol 274 cc789-90
19. Mr. HAMMERSLEY

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will now recommend the abrogation of the Anglo-Japanese trade agreement?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

The whole question of Japanese competition is receiving the careful consideration of His Majesty's Government, but as at present advised I see no occasion for taking the action which my hon. Friend suggests.

Mr. HAMMERSLEY

May we take it from that reply that the advice of the chambers of commerce, that the Japanese Treaty is interfering very seriously with our trade, will soon be considered and a definite reply given by the President of the Board of Trade as to whether this advice should be acted upon?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

Any views expressed by these organisations will, of course, be listened to with respect.

Mr. HAMMERSLEY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this advice was rendered many. months ago, that representations have been made continuously over a long period, and that we are always informed that they are waiting for the President of the Board of Trade to make up his mind?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

The hon. Gentleman need have no anxiety on that score.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Is not this increase of Japanese competition due solely to the rise in the pound relative to the yen or to the fall in the yen relative to the pound?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I am afraid that at Question Time I could not go into the whole of the reasons for the severity of Japanese competition, but the wages that are paid in Japan are one or the factors that must be taken into account.