HC Deb 07 July 1931 vol 254 cc1896-7
16. Sir K. WOOD

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can state the present position of the proceedings of the Committee of Economic Experts set up by the Commission of Inquiry for European Union; and when their report may be anticipated?

Mr. W. GRAHAM

The committee met at Geneva from 24th to 29th June and considered questions concerning commercial relations and the organisation of production and credit, but eventually came to the conclusion that since the creation of the committee important developments had taken place in the international economic situation which might modify the whole problem that they had been directed to examine. They therefore decided to adjourn until 18th August and meantime to postpone the presentation of their report.

Sir K. WOOD

That also does not seem to be getting on very well, does it?

Mr. GRAHAM

It is entirely different from the question mentioned a minute ago by my right hon. Friend. This adjournment was probably due entirely to the proposals of President Hoover.

Sir AUSTEN CHAMBERLAIN

When will the Government make a statement of their policy in regard to this matter?

Mr. GRAHAM

That is rather difficult for me to say. To some extent, it might be covered by a statement on the Board of Trade vote, but it is probably more a matter at the moment, in view of my supplementary reply, for the Treasury. Perhaps the right hon. Gentleman would put a question to the Chancellor of the Exchequer.