HC Deb 13 May 1924 vol 173 cc1125-6
8. Sir JOHN BRUNNER

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that British goods imported into Poland are subjected to higher import duties than French and Belgian goods; and whether His Majesty's Government is taking steps to rectify this discrimination?

Mr. WEBB

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. A commercial treaty, securing the removal of this discrimination, was signed at Warsaw in November last, and will come into force 15 days after ratification. I understand that it has been approved by the Polish Parliament, but still awaits confirmation by the Polish president. When this is given, immediate steps will be taken by His Majesty's Government to ratify it.

Mr. REMER

Is it not a fact that we have nothing to offer that is of any advantage to us in our negotiations?

Mr. WEBB

I understand that that is not necessary, because we have secured this agreement.