§ 79. Mr. HERBERT WILLIAMSasked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he is aware that the Canadian Government is imposing upon British goods entering Canada a surtax as a result of the depreciation of the pound sterling in relation to the Canadian dollar; and whether a similar surtax is imposed on goods from other Empire countries with a depreciated currency?
The SECRETARY of STATE for DOMINION AFFAIRS (Mr. J. H. Thomas)Particulars of the duty in question were published in the Board of Trade Journal in the issue of the 8th October, 1931, and details of subsequent modifications have appeared in the journal from time to time. The special duties were extended to Northern Ireland and to the Irish Free State by an Order-in-Council of the 9th May; a notice to this effect appears in to-day's issue of the Board of Trade Journal.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSIs the duty extended to all Empire countries with depreciated currencies?
Mr. THOMASI do not think it is extended to all. I understand that there are special arrangements between different Dominions.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSDo I understand that certain Dominions have entered into agreements with Canada whereby they avoid this surtax; and, if that be so, has the right hon. Gentleman considered the possible consequences?
Mr. THOMASI think it is true to say that certain Dominions have entered into agreements. As to the latter part of my hon. Friend's supplementary question, I would say that I am not unmindful of the consequences.