HC Deb 16 June 1931 vol 253 cc1601-2
18. Mr. MANDER

asked the President of the Board of Trade the attitude of the Government to the proposal of M. Litvinov at the session of the Commission of Inquiry for European Union, on 18th May, at Geneva, that a protocol should be signed with as its object the complete cessation of all forms of economic aggression, both avowed and concealed, confirming the principle proclaimed by the International Economic Conference of 1927 and undertaking not to adopt in their relations with one another any discrimination whatever?

Mr. W. R. SMITH

M. Litvinov's resolution, the text of which was communicated to the hon. Member on 10th June, has yet to be considered by the commission, and I do not think it would be proper for me at this stage to comment on its terms.

Mr. MANDER

Are not the Government in favour of a policy of this kind?

Mr. SMITH

It would be better, when a motion of this kind is tabled, that it should be dealt with first by the commission.

Mr. BROCKWAY

Do the Government propose to make any suggestions to this commission in order to secure greater co-operation?

Mr. SMITH

I think that the policy of the Government on this matter is very fair.

Mr. C. WILLIAMS

Has the hon. Gentleman noticed the dissatisfaction with the Government as shown in the supplementary questions?