44. Sir NICHOLAS GRATTANDOYLEasked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department in what countries of the world exports of British products are wholly or mainly admitted duty free; 1309 in what countries British products enjoy preferential treatment over other products; and in what countries they are more heavily penalised than those of other nations?
§ Mr. GILLETTI am afraid it is not possible within the limits of a Parliamentary answer to reply in detail, but it may be said generally that only in very few countries are the majority of goods of United Kingdom origin admitted duty free. United Kingdom goods obtain a measure of preference in all the Dominions, in India and in some of the Colonies. There are a few cases in foreign countries where they obtain the benefit of minimum tariff rates which are denied to the goods of some other countries. With regard to the last part of the question, United Kingdom goods obtain most favoured nation treatment throughout the world with few exceptions of any importance.
§ Sir N. GRATTAN-DOYLEIs the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department. aware that it is very desirable to have the whole of this information, and will he see that it is obtained?
§ Mr. GILLETTIf the hon. Member had put this question down for a written answer, I could have given him a fuller reply than is possible across the floor of the House.
§ Sir N. GRATTAN-DOYLEMay I repeat my question in the form of a written question?
§ Mr. GILLETT indicated assent.