HC Deb 12 March 1931 vol 249 cc1388-9
87. Major COLVILLE

asked the President of the Board of Trade which foreign countries have increased their tariffs against British goods since June, 1929?

Mr. SHINWELL

Tariff increases which may be regarded as of some general importance to British trade by reason of their nature or their scope have come into force in the following countries since the date mentioned, namely:—Argentina, Austria, Bulgaria, Chile, China, Czechoslovakia, Egypt, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iran, Italy, Mexico. Netherlands, East Indies, Persia, Peru, Portugal, Turkey and the United States. In numerous other foreign countries there have been increases of a minor character or of restricted scope. In a number of cases the increases on some articles have been accompanied by decreases on others.

Major COLVILLE

In view of that answer, can the hon. Gentleman say whether the Government are still optimistic about securing a Tariff Truce?

Viscountess ASTOR rose

HON. MEMBERS

Answer!

Mr. SPEAKER

The Noble Lady had better wait until a reply has been given.

Mr. SHINWELL

The reply to the hon. and gallant Member is that the Government are always optimistic.

Viscountess ASTOR

Have any Dominions increased their tariffs?

Mr. SHINWELL

Notice had better be given of that question.

Sir PHILIP CUNLIFFE-LISTER

Can the hon. Gentleman say how many of the countries which have increased their tariffs have signed the Tariff Truce?

Mr. SHINWELL

Notice should be given of that question.

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