§ Mr. REMNANTasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies, whether he is aware that mutton from Argentina can be imported into France subject to a duty of about 1½d. per lb., whereas mutton from Australia would be liable to a duty of 2 3–16d. per lb., or 46 per cent. more; whether he is aware that this discriminatory duty on Australian mutton effectively prohibits competition with Argentina in the French market; and whether the Government will make representations to France to secure for Australian mutton the benefit of the same tariff as is granted to Argentina?
§ Mr. ACLANDI am aware that Australian mutton is subject to the general Customs tariff on importation into France, whereas Argentine mutton enjoys the benefit of the French minimum tariff. Representations have already been made to the French Government with the view to securing the benefit of the minimum tariff for frozen mutton imported into France from Australia and New Zealand.
§ Mr. ACLANDI have no doubt that that is covered, and that our representations will have the desired effect.