HC Deb 29 November 1932 vol 272 cc621-2
7. Mr. A. RAMSAY

asked the President of the Board of Trade what countries are now seeking to enter into a new commercial agreement with the United Kingdom; and if he can state the progress of such negotiations?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

With regard to the first part of the question I wuold refer to the answer given on 25th October by my hon. Friend the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs to a question by my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for the Isle of Wight (Captain Macdonald). The negotiations referred to in that answer are still in their early stages and I cannot say when it will be possible to furnish the House with information on the subject.

Mr. RAMSAY

Does the right hon. Gentleman appreciate the position that the country has now changed over to tariffs, and will he consult the House before he enters into new commercial arrangements with foreign countries?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I am not sure that the House can do anything more than contribute in its individual capacity to the information we possess, and we shall be glad to have any information which the hon. Member may be able to bring to us.