HC Deb 08 February 1911 vol 21 c272
Mr. GOLDMAN

asked whether, in view of the importance of the trade agreement between Canada and the United States and the importance of this agreement upon imperial interests generally, he would make representations to the Government of Canada with a view to the postponement of the ratification of the agreement until after the Imperial Conference?

Mr. HARCOURT

No, Sir; I think that the question is founded upon a misapprehension. No formal treaty has been made, it being intended that the new arrangements should come into effect by concurrent legislation in Canada and the United States and no question of ratification therefore arises. I understand that there is in any case no possibility of immediate legislation and there is therefore ample time to consider the agreement. I may add that I have no reason to believe that Canada is desirous of submitting questions of her own internal affairs to the judgment of the other dominions attending the Imperial Conference.