HC Deb 08 June 1931 vol 253 cc607-8
84. Mr. ARTHUR MICHAEL SAMUEL

asked the President of the Board of Trade what reply has been, or will be, sent to the French Government with regard to their request to the British Government to reduce safeguarding and/or other duties which affect French exports to Great Britain?

Mr. GILLETT

Negotiations with the French and other Governments on the question of tariff reductions are still proceeding, and I do not think it would be desirable to make any statement as to the communications which are passing on the subject at the present stage.

Mr. SAMUEL

Will the hon. Member answer my question in which I asked what reply has been sent regarding the French Government's request that we should reduce safeguarding and/or other duties which affect French exports to Great Britain?

Mr. GILLETT

I can add nothing to the answer that I have given.

Sir W. BRASS

Can the hon. Member say when these conversations started?

Mr. GILLETT

No, Sir.

Sir W. BRASS

Do you not know?