HC Deb 11 April 1911 vol 24 cc208-9
Mr. PETO

asked whether the items detailed in Appendix II. of the White Paper detailing the treaty of commerce and navigation between Great Britain and Japan are the only items on which any reduction in the rates proposed under the new statutory Japanese tariff have been obtained; and what proportion they bear to the total number of items on which the rate of duty is increased by the new Japanese customs tariff?

The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Buxton)

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. In view of the entire change of classification of the Japanese tariff and the sub-division and re-arrangement of items I am not able to answer the last part of the question, nor do I think that the figure desired would be of any value if it could be given.

Mr. PETO

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the rates of tariff secured for British goods entering Japan were in any case less favourable than those obtained by negotiation by any other Power; and, if so, whether, for the convenience of British traders, he would forthwith lay upon the Table of the House a detailed list showing all items in which the rates leviable under the new Anglo Japanese Treaty would be in excess of the duties leviable on goods exported by any other and which Power or Powers?

Mr. BUXTON

No, Sir. British goods entering Japan will in no case enjoy treatment less favourable than that accorded to similar goods the product of any other foreign country.

Mr. CROFT

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether any suggestion of retaliation or of an alteration in the fiscal policy of the United Kingdom was made during the negotiations with the Japanese Government in connection with the commercial treaty?

Sir E. GREY

A large part of all negotiations of this character must be informal and confidential, and to make any public statements about them afterwards would prejudice in future negotiations the freedom of discussion on both sides which is essential to any successful result.

Mr. CROFT

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether the inclusion of the paragraph which reads: "The articles of produce and manufactures of Japan enumerated in Part II. of the Schedule annexed to this treaty shall be free of duty on importation into the United Kingdom," was due to the prophetic fear of the Japanese of a tariff in this country, or whether it was the certain knowledge of the right hon. Gentleman that a tariff would be shortly introduced?

Sir E. GREY

I think that is covered by the answer I have already given.