HC Deb 11 March 1931 vol 249 cc1186-7
53. Vice-Admiral TAYLOR

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can now make a statement as to any answers he may have received from the Governments of France, Germany, and Italy in reply to the Government note asking for a reduction of tariffs on certain British imports into these countries?

Mr. GILLETT

No answers have yet been received from any of the Governments in question.

50. Major COLVILLE (for Mr. HANNON)

asked the President of the Board of Trade to what extent the proposed tariff truce will be affected by recent German proposals to increase their tariffs on foreign imports unless that country is allowed to increase its exports?

Mr. GILLETT

I am informed that the German Government contemplate taking powers to vary their import duties by administrative action. It is obviously impossible to indicate at present what effect any such proposals might have on the tariff truce.

Major COLVILLE

Does that not indicate that the tariff truce is ineffective?