HC Deb 25 October 1932 vol 269 c788
8. Captain PETER MACDONALD

asked the President of the Board of Trade what is the result of the negotiations with the French and German Governments in respect of the restrictions imposed by them on the import of British coal to their respective countries?

The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Runciman)

Representations to the French Government were directed towards securing that the coal export trade of the United Kingdom should receive treatment not less favourable than that accorded to other countries exporting coal to France. That object has been achieved. The German Government have now suggested that the question of restrictions on the import of United Kingdom coal shall be the subject of discussion between the two Governments.

Captain MACDONALD

Has the discussion already taken place? This matter has been under review for about six months. Surely some progress has been made in the meantime.

Mr. RUNCIMAN

Yes, the progress that I have reported.