HC Deb 01 December 1931 vol 260 c912
15. Brigadier-General CLIFTON BROWN

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he will postpone making any arrangements with the Dominions for inter-Imperial trade until he is in a position to explain to them our own agricultural policy, in order that the requirements of British agricultural producers in our own home markets shall not be overlooked?

The SECRETARY of STATE for DOMINION AFFAIRS (Mr. J. H. Thomas)

My hon. and gallant Friend can rest assured that in connection with any proposals to be made to the Dominions for the extension of inter-Imperial trade due regard will be had to the interests of home agricultural producers.

Brigadier-General BROWN

Does the right hon. Gentleman agree with Mr. Bruce that priority to British agriculture should be given in our home market before anything else; and what agricultural representative will the right hon. Gentleman have to guide him?

Mr. THOMAS

I agree with the answer I have given.

Vice-Admiral TAYLOR

Will the right hon. Gentleman use his influence with the Cabinet so that a statement of agricultural policy may be made in this country and at the Imperial Conference at the earliest possible moment?