§ Mr. A. FELLasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, if, during the negotiations which took place with the French Budget Committee at the time the new French customs tariff was under consideration, any promise or arrangement was made by the Government that the duties on French wines should not be increased under the Finance Bill, notwithstanding the increase in the Spirit Duty and Excise?
§ Sir E. GREYThe answer is in the negative.
§ Mr. FELLIf we have any negotiations at all, will they be made through the Board of Trade, or will they have to pass through the right hon. Gentleman's Department?
§ Sir E. GREYI do not see how that arises out of the statement that no negotiations are taking place.
§ Sir E. GREYThe Foreign Office is the channel through which negotiations must take place, but in the case of commercial treaties the Foreign Office and the Board of Trade are in constant consultation with each other.