HC Deb 29 July 1930 vol 242 cc248-9
8. Mr. LAMBERT

asked the President of the Board of Trade what treaties, if any, would prevent a general order prohibiting the import of bounty-fed grain?

Mr. W. GRAHAM

A general order prohibiting the importation of goods on the ground that they are dumped or bounty-fed would conflict with the provisions of the International Convention for the Abolition of Import and Export Prohibitions and Restrictions which is in force between the United Kingdom and six other countries. It would also conflict with the Anglo-German Treaty and the Anglo-Persian Tariff Autonomy Treaty. Apart from these instruments, there are eight treaties in force which specifically provide against the prohibition of the importation of any articles unless the importation of like articles from other countries is prohibited at the some time, and which contain no reservation in regard to bounty-fed or other dumped goods.

Sir PHILIP CUNLIFFE-LISTER

Would not these treaties permit prohibitive duties as distinct from prohibition?

Mr. GRAHAM

Yes; in the debate the other day I tried to make it clear that it is a duty at large which is applicable all round. Then, as I am advised, no treaty question arises.

Mr. McSHANE

Will the right hon. Gentleman state which Government negotiated these treaties?