HC Deb 31 July 1930 vol 242 cc702-3
74. Mr. MANDER

asked the President of the Board of Trade why the trade agreement between this country and the Argentine Republic is being held up?

Mr. W. GRAHAM

The agreement is still awaiting ratification by the Argentine Senate.

Mr. MANDEB

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a statement was made by a member of the Canadian Government that it was being held up pending the result of the Canadian General Election; and what foundation is there for that statement?

Mr. GRAHAM

No, Sir. I think that the reason is the one which I have already given to the House, namely, that there were certain constitutional questions following the General Election in the Argentine. I believe that to be the reason for the delay.

Mr. MANDER

There is no foundation for the other statement?

Mr. GRAHAM

To the best of my knowledge, no.

Captain CROOKSHANK

As there has been this long delay, would it not be better to hold the matter up pending the Imperial Conference?

Mr. GRAHAM

No; the Government still hope that this agreement will be ratified. There are very great advantages in it.

Sir NAIRNE STEWART SANDEMAN

Will the right hon. Gentleman take note of the fact that a Conservative Government has been elected in Canada?