HC Deb 09 June 1931 vol 253 cc792-3
38. Mr. HARRIS

asked the President of the Board of Trade how many articles are subject to additional duties by the new Canadian tariff; and whether he will make representations to the Canadian Government as to the undesirability of imposing fresh barriers on trade at a time of universal trade depression?

Mr. W. GRAHAM

I have not yet received retails of all the changes recently made in the Canadian Customs tariff, and I am unable therefore to say how many of the articles exported from this country will be subjected to increased duties. Some details were published in the last issue of the "Board of Trade Journal," and full particulars will be similarly published as soon as they are received. The point raised in the second part of the question cannot usefully be considered in the absence of fuller information than I at present possess.

Mr. HARRIS

When the right hon. Gentleman is in full possession of the facts, if he find that some of these duties are increasing against this country, will he consider making representations?

Mr. GRAHAM

I can assure my hon. Friend that that point will be considered.

Mr. WARDLAW-MILNE

Does the right hon. Gentleman consider that the making of representations will be of the slightest use, unless he is prepared to offer something in return?

Mr. GRAHAM

Yes. On innumerable occasions in all parts of the world we get concessions without becoming involved in tariffs in this country.

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