48. Captain BENNasked the Prime Minister whether the Government still considers itself bound by the terms of the White Paper in granting inquiries and imposing duties in favour of industries which make application?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Sir Burton Chadwick)I have been asked to reply. There has been no change in the policy of the Government in regard to the safeguarding of industries.
Captain BENNMay I ask the Prime Minister if he will kindly answer the question? Is the policy of the Government as laid down by him in debate in this House, that the only avenue is through the procedure laid down in the White Paper?
§ The PRIME MINISTERAs far as I remember, that is so; but I have not myself investigated the matter with reference to this question, I asked the Board of Trade to look after it.
Captain BENNMay we take it that industries which cannot satisfy the conditions of the White Paper will be eligible for a duty?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI do not know whether my hon. and gallant Friend means every condition in the White Paper. That question was raised on the Lace Duties. It is perfectly obvious that the ultimate decision rests with the Cabinet as to whether or not the recommendations made by the Committee shall be put in force.
Captain BENNBut if the Committee report that the conditions of the White Paper are not fulfilled, will the industry still, under the Government policy, be eligible?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI should like to wait until the circumstances arise.
§ Sir R. THOMASMay I ask the Prime Minister whether it is not the fact that almost every industry in the country is now making application?
§ The PRIME MINISTERNot that I am aware of.