§ MR. J. CROSSasked the Under Secretary of State for India, If can give the House any information as to the probability of an early abolition of the pro- 1485 tective duties at present imposed by the Indian Government upon the import of cotton goods and yarns; and, if not, whether he can inform the House when these duties will be materially reduced?
§ LORD GEORGE HAMILTONSir, the Government of India appointed a Committee to inquire into the working of the Tariff Act of 1871, and their attention was specially directed to the duties imposed upon cotton goods and yarns. They have not yet reported; but when their Report has been received and considered I shall be very happy to give the hon. Gentleman the information he requires. As these duties are imposed on fiscal grounds and not for purposes of protection, may I point out to the hon. Gentleman that the word "protective" does not very correctly designate the character of the duties referred to.