§ 42. Mr. JACOBasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether he is aware of the fact that, whereas the Union of South Africa formerly allowed a preference on United Kingdom goods, consisting of a general 3 per cent. ad valorem rebate, now, under the Customs Tariff and Excise Duties Amendment Act, 1925, such preference has been withdrawn in respect of a large number of articles; whether any protests have been made to his Department on behalf of British exporters; and whether, in view of the discussions 549 at the Imperial Conference, he will make representations with a view to the reestablishment of a general preference in the Dominion?
Mr. SAMUELThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. As regards the second part, some traders in this country have expressed regret at the loss of preference on their goods, but on the other hand several important branches of British exports have gained additional advantages. The grant of preference to United Kingdom goods is a matter which rests entirely with the Union Government.