§ 50. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Prime Minister what general instructions were given to the financial experts and economists representing His Majesty's Government at the Genoa Conference on the subject of the removal of barriers and impediments to the free exchange of goods and the free movements of individuals across the various frontiers of Europe?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINHis Majesty's Government were represented by Ministers on the Economic and Transport Commissions set up by the Genoa Conference to study the subjects referred to in the question. The general lines laid down for these discussions are indicated in the report of the experts who met in London during March. This report was issued in full to the Press on 13th April and was published in most of the important newspapers.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYIn view of the findings of the experts, do the Government propose to repeal the Safeguarding of Industries Act for the improvement of commerce?
§ 52. Captain W. BENNasked the Lord Privy Seal whether the Currency Commission of the Finance Commission at the Genoa Conference arrived at the conclusion that inter-Governmental liabilities can only be paid in so far as an export 1167 surplus is available for the purpose and that the country which has excessive liabilities or external debts cannot be expected to balance its Budget; and whether these results have been communicated to the Reparation Commission for consideration in connection with the determination of the German indemnity?
Mr. YOUNGThe Report of the Commission which contains some such passages, but couched in less positive language, has been published, but has yet to be confirmed by the Conference.
§ Captain BENNAre we to take it that the recommendations of the Reparation Commission will not be in harmony with the recommendations of this Committee?