HC Deb 10 May 1932 vol 265 cc1702-3
19. Mr. CULVERWELL

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether his attention has been called to the duties recently imposed on cocoa preparations entering the Irish Free State; and what action he proposes taking to secure a reduction of the duties in the interests of English exporters of these products?

Mr. THOMAS

Details of these duties appear on page 645 of the issue of the Board of Trade Journal for the 5th May. As regards the second part of the question, the position is under consideration.

Mr. CULVERWELL

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the serious effect which these prohibitive duties are having upon British manufacturers, and cannot he take some steps to secure their reduction, either by negotiation or by threats of retaliatory duties on Irish goods coming into this country?

Viscountess ASTOR

Does not the right hon. Gentleman think it would be a very great thing for Ireland if we could increase the drinking of cocoa?

Mr. THOMAS

I have not very much experience of either stout or cocoa.