HC Deb 16 February 1931 vol 248 cc853-4
28. Sir WILLIAM DAVISON

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that the French Government have now, in addition to the Government of the United States, decided to close their frontiers to the importation of Russian timber, having regard to the conditions of its production; and whether he will obtain reports from His Majesty's representatives in France upon the circumstances in which this action has been taken?

Mr. A. HENDERSON

As regards the first part of the question I have no official information of any such decision by the French Government. As regards the second part, His Majesty's Am- bassador in Paris may be relied upon to report, in the ordinary course of his duties, if and when any such decision is reached by the French Government.

Sir W. DAVISON

If no decision has actually been reached, is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this matter has been under the consideration of the French Government, and does he not think that the British Government should get the information?

Sir F. HALL

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the United States Government have taken steps in this direction?

Mr. REMER

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that cargoes of timber are actually being prohibited at Havre?

Sir F. HALL

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the United States Government's action?

69. Mr. SMITHERS

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the action of the Treasury of the United States of America Government in making effective regulations concerning the import of timber from Russia on the ground that convict labour is used in its production, he will introduce legislation to prevent goods produced under such conditions being dumped into this country?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. W. R. Smith)

I have nothing to add to previous answers on this subject.

Mr. SMITHERS

In view of the fact that other great countries are taking steps to prevent goods produced under these conditions being imported into their countries, will not the hon. Gentleman consult with the Government to see what steps can be taken to prevent goods being dumped into this country to the detriment of the workers of this country?

Mr. SPEAKER

That question has been answered once already.