HC Deb 05 June 1924 vol 174 cc1452-3
83. Sir F. HALL

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the presence at the British Empire Exhibition of a stall exclusively devoted to the distribution of Free Trade literature; and whether, in view of the impression likely to be created by this attempt to use the Exhibition, primarily intended to improve trading relations with the Dominions, to promote trade with foreign countries at the expense of this country and the Dominions, the Government will take steps for the removal of the stall?

Mr. LUNN

I am informed by the British Empire Exhibition authorities that the printed matter, which can be obtained by callers at the stall to which the hon. and gallant Member no doubt refers, only contains information compiled from official statistics and other sources which are available to the public. In the circumstances I do not think it is necessary for His Majesty's Government to take any action.

Sir F. Hall

Has the hon. Member taken the trouble to send any representative to the British Empire Exhibition to inquire into this matter, and does he think it advisable that any ideas with regard to Free Trade or Protection should be promulgated in an exhibition carried on for the benefit of this country in general?

Mr. SPEAKER

That question was discussed a month or two ago.

Sir F. HALL

rose

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. and gallant Member too often repeats his question.

Sir F. HALL

Does not the hon. Member recognise that this is not fair to people who hold different principles?