§ SIR HOWARD VINCENTI beg to ask the Prime Minister what practical steps it is proposed to take to carry out the view of His Majesty's Government as expressed to the Imperial Conference on 6th May, 1907, and reported in the official summary issued by the Colonial Office, that the Empire would be a great gainer if much that was now bought from foreign countries could be produced and purchased within the Empire.
§ THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER (Mr. ASQUITH,) Fifeshire, E.Perhaps I may be allowed to answer this Question in the absence of the Prime Minister, who is meeting Lord Cromer. The promotion of inter-Imperial trade by any suitable means consistent with the special conditions and interests of the various parts of the Empire is a matter which continues to engage the earnest attention of His Majesty's Government. At the present moment I fear I cannot add to this statement.
§ SIR HOWARD VINCENTI want to know how the Government is going to give effect to this declaration by a very important member of the Ministry.
§ MR. ASQUITHI am afraid my hon. and gallant friend must possess his soul in patience.