§ 6. Mr. T. KENNEDYasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that the Swiss Customs duty on plain and printed linoleums and floorcloth is about to be increased from 30 francs per 100 kilos to 50 francs and the duty on inlaid and granite linoleums from 45 to 70 francs; if he is aware that such an increase would practically stop the export of British linoleum to Switzerland; and if any steps can be taken to secure a reduction of the duties mentioned?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERThe proposed new duties to which the hon. Member refers are contained in a Bill for the general revision of the Swiss Tariff, a translation of which was published in the "Board of Trade Journal" for the 19th March. I understand that the new Tariff is likely to be materially modified by Commercial Treaties between Switzerland and other countries, and it is not expected that it will come into force, even in a modified form, for at least two years. I have already received representations against the proposals as affecting linoleum and other goods, and these representations will receive careful consideration in connection with any action which it may be possible to take when a suitable opportunity occurs.