HC Deb 16 February 1932 vol 261 cc1440-1
17. Mr. GIBSON

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he has received a reply to his representations to the Portuguese Government in connection with flag discrimination against the shipping of this country; and, if so, what is the nature of such reply?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer given yesterday by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs in reply to a similar question by my hon. Friend the Member for East Lewisham (Sir A. Pownall).

Mr. GIBSON

Having regard to the reply of the Foreign Secretary yesterday and the President of the Board of Trade to-day, is this not a case of discrimination that should receive special consideration when the Tariff Bill becomes law?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs made a statement on this question. If my hon. Friend refers to that statement, I think he will get satisfaction.