HC Deb 19 April 1926 vol 194 c842
50. Mr. HURD

asked the Prime Minister if his attention has been called to the declaration by the Prime Minister of Canada of the willingness of the Canadian Government to enact measures to keep British preference trade to Canadian ports; and whether this limitation will be observed in the administration of the grant towards the marketing of Empire produce in this country?

Mr. AMERY

I have been asked to reply to this question. I have seen Press reports of the statement by the Prime Minister of Canada to which my hon. Friend refers. I am afraid that not only geographical conditions in certain parts of the Empire, but the actual character of the expenditure under the grant would make it impracticable to adopt the suggestion contained in the latter part of the question.

Mr. HURD

May I ask the Colonial Secretary whether this is not a matter upon which it would be useful to seek the advice of the Canadian Government?

Mr. AMERY

We hope to IA in the closest touch with the Imperial Economic Committee on which the views of Canada are represented. I doubt, however, if it is feasible to advocate, for instance, the consumption of Empire apples shipped through particular channels.