HC Deb 28 November 1932 vol 272 cc474-5
45. Sir PERCY HURD

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the currency differences which have been accentuated since the Imperial Economic Conference are tending seriously to nullify the benefits to Canada and other parts of the Empire of the compacts made at the Conference; and whether, in order to promote the success of the World Economic Conference, the British Government will invite the other Governments of the Empire to confer together at the earliest possible moment on this one matter?

The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Ramsay MacDonald)

I do not feel able to adopt my hon. Friend's proposal for a further conference, and I have no reason to suppose that it would be welcomed by any part of the Empire.

Sir P. HURD

Might not the Dominions themselves feel the desirability of unity of action between the Governments of the Empire on this vital matter; and how can that be brought about if they do not confer?

The PRIME MINISTER

The only suggestion that has ever come to my notice for such a thing, is in this question.

Sir J. WARDLAW-MILNE

Does that mean that the Government of this country would welcome any suggestion for a conference of this character, coming from the Dominions?

The PRIME MINISTER

I doubt if it would be effective.