HC Deb 05 November 1929 vol 231 cc808-9
6. Sir NICHOLAS GRATTAN-DOYLE

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether, in his recent interview with representatives of the British motor car manufacturing industry, the question of existing import duties was discussed; and whether any undertaking was given in regard to the Government's intentions as to changes in these duties?

Mr. THOMAS

The question of the existing import duties is one of the matters discussed at the meetings I have had with the representatives of the British motor car manufacturing industry, and I have been placed in possession of their views. No statement from me as to the Government's intentions with regard to those duties was expected. As I informed the House yesterday, the question of the motor export trade is being explored in all its aspects.

Sir N. GRATTAN-DOYLE

Can the right hon. Gentleman give the House any indication of the mind of the Government, or of what he is going to do?

Mr. THOMAS

The mind of the Government was clearly indicated on this subject by the Chancellor of the Exchequer.

Sir WILLIAM MITCHELL-THOMSON

Are we to understand from that statement that no variation in the statement already made by the Chancellor of the Exchequer is to be expected in advance of the next Budget?

Mr. THOMAS

You are to understand exactly what that statement was and what it implied.

Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSON

Is any further statement of the Government's intention to be made before the next Budget?

Mr. THOMAS

If there is, the statement will be made in the usual way.

Mr. BECKETT

Will my right hon. Friend consider the fact that it is a very bad way to encourage our own exports by starting to raise barriers against imports?

Captain EDEN

Does the right hon. Gentleman not now appreciate that a declaration in favour of maintaining these duties will affect the motor car industry far more than any eloquence of the right hon. Gentleman can do?

Mr. THOMAS

My eloquence is not under review, but the knowledge given to me by those engaged in the industry is far more important even than the question of the hon. and gallant Member.

Major McKENZIE WOOD

Did the right hon. Gentleman give a personal pledge of any action or promise to these manufacturers?

Mr. THOMAS

I have already answered quite clearly, "No."

Mr. W. THORNE

Is my right hon. Friend aware that certain hon. Gentlemen on the other side of the House stated quite definitely—[Interruption.]