§ 13. Mr. BROCKLEBANKasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether it is intended, in view of the forthcoming expiration of the Anglo-Portuguese Commercial Treaty, to take steps in connection with any negotiations for its renewal, to secure that the Portuguese Government shall alter its arrangements for certifying wines which may be exported to this country under the name of port, so as to ensure a return to the general practice prior to the treaty of 1914, whereby ports exported from Portugal were mainly of a strength exceeding 30 degrees of proof spirit, with a view to the prevention of the present loss of British revenue due to the shipping of largely increasing quantities of wines from Portugal described as port at a. strength below 30 degrees and chargeable, therefore, with a wine duty in Great Britain of 2s. 6d. per gallon instead of 6s. per gallon?
§ Mr. A. M. SAMUEL (Secretary, Overseas Trade Department)I have been asked to reply. The question of the proper strength of the wine which can legally be described as "Port" is at present under discussion with the Portuguese Government. In order to remove a misapprehension, I would explain that the Anglo-Portuguese Treaty of Commerce and Navigation is in any event binding on the parties until 23rd September, 1926, and only ceases to 2501 operate after that date if either contracting party gives notice of its intention to terminate it.
§ Sir JAMES REMNANTMay I ask the hon. Gentleman whether, in view of the early expiration of the treaty, steps can be taken either to continue it or to open negotiations for enlarging it, in view of the heavy duties imposed by the Portuguese Government on the imports from this country into Portugal of our manufactured articles?
§ Mr. SAMUELIt is true that representations have been made to my Department about the Portuguese duties on our steel goods. If we reopen the question with regard to the treaty, I will bear in mind the suggestion of my hon. Friend.