§ Mr. CROFTasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he, as Chairman of the Commercial Intelligence Branch of the Board of Trade, has called for reports from the various chambers of commerce throughout the United Kingdom on the proposed changes in the Japanese tariff which is to come into force next year, and especially chambers in Lancashire and Yorkshire, with a view to ascertaining the effect upon British trade and the nature of the representations which should be made forthwith to the Japanese Government?
Mr. BUXTONYes, Sir. Such reports were called for more than a month ago; and, when received, will be considered by the Advisory Committee of the Board of Trade.
§ Mr. CROFTMay I ask whether this is an occasion when the right hon. Gentleman might follow the example of his predecessor at the Board of Trade, and at least use a threat of retaliation to get fair terms?
Mr. BUXTONI am considering what action, if any, shall be taken. But we had better wait until we know what are the views of the chambers of commerce, to whom the matter has been referred, and of the Advisory Committee of the Board of Trade, which represents all opinions.
§ Mr. CROFTasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has received the new draft tariff of Japan which recently passed the House of Representatives and is to come into force next year; and whether he will publish the same for the information of British exporters, whose trade is seriously threatened by increased imposts?
Mr. BUXTONA translation of the new draft Japanese Customs tariff has been prepared by the Board of Trade, and will shortly be issued as a Parliamentary Paper. The provisions of the new Japanese Tariff Bill have been communicated to chambers of commerce and other representative associations with a view to ascertaining the probable effect of the new proposals, if enacted, on British trade. When the replies have been received they will be considered by the Board of Trade Advisory Committee on Commercial Intelligence.