HC Deb 05 March 1919 vol 113 c399
48. Mr. HIGHAM

asked the Prime Minister if he is in a position to state the after-war trade policy of the Government, with special regard to Colonial preference, dumping, and the protection of our key industries?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I cannot add anything to the answer which I gave to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Central Wandsworth on the 13th February.

Mr. HIGHAM

In view of the enormous addition to the National Debt which will be included in the new Budget, is the right hon. Gentleman prepared to tell the House that before the presentation of that Budget the Government's policy in regard to after-war trade will be announced?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The subject is now being dealt with by the Government, and it is quite impossible to make any statement on this occasion.

Mr. LAMBERT

Is it intended to make any change in the fiscal policy of the country?

Mr. BONAR LAW

It depends on what my right hon. Friend calls the fiscal policy of the country.

Colonel LOWTHER

Is the Government about to depart from the policy laid down by the Prime Minister at the time of the election, which includes the prevention of dumping and the protection of our key industries?

Mr. BONAR LAW

The answer is to the effect that we are taking the steps necessary to carry out that policy.