HC Deb 17 February 1926 vol 191 cc1903-4
13. Mr. RAMSDEN

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that the French Government has under consideration the question of increasing its Customs tariff; and whether he will make representations to that Government pointing out that such increases of duty would have an adverse effect on the trade of this country?

81. Sir FRANK NELSON

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department if he is aware of the intention of the French Government to increase the French import duties on elastics to 30 per cent. in the near future and in due course to 60 per cent.; and whether he is prepared to make representations to the French Government in the interest of the British trade in elastics with France?

Mr. A. M. SAMUEL (Secretary, Overseas Trade Department)

I have been asked to reply. It would appear that the French Government contemplate a further general alteration in the level of their Customs tariff, to bring it into correspondence with the current value of the paper franc. The French Government are being approached, with a view to their giving adequate notice of any increased duties that may be imposed, in order that existing contracts may be carried out as far as possible, or failing this with a view to the exemption at least of British goods shipped before the promulgation of the law. To go beyond this would not, I think, serve any useful purpose.

Mr. RAMSDEN

In the event of the French Government increasing their Duties, will the Government consider an increase of our Duties on sparkling wines?

Sir F. NELSON

Does the hon. Gentlemen's Department appreciate the great difficulties which British manufacturers would experience in supporting any arrangement which His Majesty's Government may come to with France in regard to the French debt, if in the meantime tariffs are placed on the goods they manufacture?

Mr. SAMUEL

I am sure that my right hon. Friend will bear that in mind, but I do not think any good purpose would be served by my giving expression to any opinion now.

Sir F. NELSON

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that in the case of the elastic manufacturers, such a tariff would have the effect of completely putting them out of business?

Mr. SAMUEL

That may be so, but I cannot very well take up one item from a great many.

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