§ Mr. H. S. FOSTERasked what steps have been taken to induce the French Government to modify the serious increases of the new French tariff as affecting British trade interests?
§ Sir E. GREYVarious representations were made to the French Government with regard to articles in which British trade is interested while the new tariff was under discussion with a view to its modification. It is, of course, impossible for me to say what representations have been made to the French Government by other countries or with what success. I can, however, say that in several cases reductions have been made in the duties originally proposed on articles of importance to British trade, with respect to which the views of British traders as ascertained by the Board of Trade and their Commercial Intelligence Committee, had been brought by us to the notice of the French Government. Though the French tariff as finally passed is by no means welcome to British trade, I have no reason to believe that British interests have received less consideration than those of other foreign countries.
§ Mr. JAMES HOPEIs it a fact that the Bill as it passed the Senate was worse than when it was originally introduced, and have not large concessions been made to American interests?
§ Sir E. GREYI do not say whether concessions have not been made to other countries. The last part of the answer already given answers that. But it would be a mistake to suppose that British interests have received less consideration than those of other foreign countries to which concessions have been made.
§ Mr. JAMES HOPEWhen will Papers be prepared?
§ Sir E. GREYPapers are being prepared. A general examination of tariffs is essential to the presentation of any Papers. That is now being pursued by the Board of Trade.