HC Deb 03 November 1908 vol 195 cc982-3
EARL OF RONALDSHAY

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he can now say what is the nature of the revision of the French tariff proposed by the Customs Commission to the Chamber of Deputies; will the proposed revision, if carried out, involve the levying of a higher rate of duties upon British imports into France; and, if so, can he say the extent of the increased duties upon elastic fabrics.

THE PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF TRADE (Mr. CHURCHILL,) Dundee

My right hon. friend has asked me to reply to this Question. I understand that the Customs Commission of the Chamber of Deputies has for some time been considering proposals for the revision (mainly in the direction of increased duties) of the French tariff. As regards elastic tissues the Commission have recommended that the "minimum" tariff rates of duty shall range from 200 to 600 francs per 100 kilograms according to the nature of the weft. The existing rate is 200 francs per 100 kilograms for all descriptions.

EARL OF RONALDSHAY

Are His Majesty's Government prepared to take any steps to prevent injustice to British manufacturers?

MR. ARNOLD-FORSTER

Has any Report been received as to what will be the effect of this new arrangement on the Bradford trade?

MR. CHURCHILL

As to the last Question I should like to have notice. Of course, the Government will take all reasonable and judicious steps to secure the interests of British traders.

*MR. MYER (Lambeth, N.)

Is it not the fact that no matter what duty any country may put on goods, it does not affect our exports in the least, but merely raises the prices of the manufacturers in foreign countries to our prices plus duty?

*MR. SPEAKER

That is rather leading to a debate.