§ 7. Mr. HANNONasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can make any statement relating to the introduction of the new French Customs tariff; if he is aware that it is contemplated to increase nearly fourfold the number of specified duties now operative,, which will seriously affect the export of British goods to France; and if any representations have been made to the French Government on behalf of British industry?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERThe Bill for revising the French tariff is expected shortly to be introduced in the Chamber of Deputies, and I have seen reports that the number of tariff items is to be 724 greatly increased. The question of making representations to the French Government cannot usefully be considered until detailed particulars of the proposals are available, and the views of British trade interests have been obtained.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYWill the right hon. Gentleman bring this fact to the notice of the Chancellor of the Exchequer, so that it can be linked up with our discussion of that question?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERI think the Chancellor of the Exchequer is as well acquainted with it as I am.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that we had no question of this at all when we had the discussion in the House and the explanation of the Chancellor of the Exchequer?