§ 5. Captain P. MACDONALDasked the President of the Board of Trade whether the new quotas introduced by the French Ministry of Commerce with regard to the importation of manufactured goods into France are regarded as satisfactory to British exporters; and, if not, what action he proposes to take in the matter?
§ Mr. COLVILLEThe French quota system has been in operation since last October and new classes of goods have been included under it from time to time. As has already been stated His Majesty's Government are always ready to make representations where necessary to secure equitable treatment for British manufactures but general representations against the quota system as such are not at present likely to serve a useful purpose.
§ Captain MACDONALDHave there not been any negotiations at all about this quota system when it is discriminating against our trade?
§ Mr. COLVILLEIf evidence of discrimination is found, representations are made at once, but the position which the Government have taken up in regard to the quota system in general has already been explained to the House.