§ 85. Mr. GRANVILLE GIBSONasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if in view of the feeling of uncertainty in the paper industry, he will definitely state his intention with regard to the removal of the duty on imported wrapping paper, which lapses in 1931?
§ The CHANCELLOR of the EX-CHEQUER (Mr. Philip Snowden)I would refer the hon. Member to the statements made by the Prime Minister and myself on the subject of the Safeguarding Duties during the Debate on the Address, to which I have nothing to add.
§ Mr. GIBSONMay I ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that the failure of the Government to give a definite pronouncement of its intentions in the future in regard to its fiscal policy is creating a great deal of harm in various industries in the country and particularly in the West Riding of Yorkshire; and, further, is he aware of the fact that many extensions of plant and purchases of plant are being held up because of the uncertainty prevailing owing to the failure of the Government to announce their policy?
§ Mr. SNOWDENI am not aware of any uncertainty in the West Riding of Yorkshire. The policy of the Government in regard to the recent application of the Safeguarding Duties to certain woollen textile goods is quite clear and definite. We are not prepared to impose a duty upon that class of goods. It must, of course, be recognised that there is always a certain amount of uncertainty incidental to a tariff policy, and those who desire a tariff policy ought to take that fact into consideration.
§ Sir WILLIAM MITCHELL-THOMSONMay I ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he does not realise that a large part of that uncertainty arises from the very speeches of himself, to which he has referred; and, further, if he is not aware, indeed it is notorious, that this uncertainty exists to an enormous extent in the motor trade to-day?
§ Sir N. GRATTAN-DOYLEIn view of the fact that the right hon. Gentleman has undoubtedly made up his mind now as to what his probable course will be, why cannot he announce it?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThe hon. Member is making a speech.