HC Deb 11 March 1912 vol 35 cc821-2
Mr. HUNT

asked whether the right hon. Gentleman's attention has been called to the statement of Dr. Delbruck, the German Secretary of State for the Interior, on the 4th March, in the Reichstag, that owing to Free Trade England had to put up with anything foreign countries thought fit to do; and whether he will take steps to bring about an alteration of this handicap to our industries and working people?

Mr. BUXTON

I am afraid I cannot discuss the views held by Dr. Delbruck as to British commercial policy, beyond saying that I do not happen to share them.

Mr. HUNT

Am I to understand that under so-called Free Trade the Government are absolutely helpless?

Mr. BUXTON

There is no foundation whatever for that statement.

Mr. HUNT

Will the right hon. Gentleman say what he can do?

Mr. BUXTON

I should be trespassing on the time of the House longer than is ordinarily necessary. I dare say the hon. Gentleman will have an opportunity of raising the question some time in the course of Debate, and I shall be able to give him a complete answer.

Mr. HUNT

Has the right hon. Gentleman got nothing to say?

Mr. BUXTON

What I have to say is to entirely deny not the accuracy of the hon. Member, but of Dr. Delbruck in the inference he draws from our commercial policy.

Mr. KING

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider this speech in German, or does he accept the translation of the hon. Member?

Mr. HUNT

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he is aware that it is not my own copy?