HC Deb 23 July 1919 vol 118 cc1352-3
47. Mr. GIDEON MURRAY

asked the Prime Minister whether any change has been made in the policy of the Government with regard to foreign trade?

Sir A. GEDDES

I have been asked to answer this question. No change has been made in the policy of the Government with regard to foreign trade.

Mr. MURRAY

Will the Leader of the House tell us whether the resignation of the hon. Gentleman the Member for the Erdington Division of Birmingham (Sir A. Steel-Maitland) was due to a difference of opinion regarding our foreign trade policy? Was that so?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The reasons for resignation were given in the letter of my hon. Friend. I know nothing beyond that.

Mr. G. LAMBERT

Will the right hon. Gentleman tell us when he proposes to make his statement regarding the changes which are alleged to be taking place regarding the policy of the Government in respect to the trade of the country?

Mr. BONAR LAW

If the right hon. Gentleman means the statement in regard to the trade policy of the Government, I hope to be able to make it before the Recess.

Captain BENN

May I inquire how far the policy of which the right lion. Gentleman is going to make an announcement, is compromised by the Budget?

Mr. BONAR LAW

In no direction at all.