HC Deb 26 October 1932 vol 269 cc961-2
50. Mr. HAMMERSLEY

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether the Canadian Government have yet agreed to abolish the variable antidumping surcharge based on the rate of exchange?

Mr. J. H. THOMAS

Under Article 17 of the United Kingdom-Canadian Trade Agreement His Majesty's Government in Canada undertook to give sympathetic consideration to the possibility of reducing and ultimately abolishing the exchange dumping duty in so far as it applies to imports from the United Kingdom. I can assure my hon. Friend that I shall not lose sight of this matter.

Mr. HAMMERSLEY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the fact that the uncertainty in respect of the price at which British manufacturers can export to Canada is the main item of consideration, and can he hold out to the House any hope that within a reasonable time this matter will be settled?

Mr. THOMAS

On the particular point of uncertainty on this matter, I am well aware of it, and not only can I hold out hope, but inspiration, during my speech to-day.

Mr. THORNE

Have the Canadian Government given any definition of what they mean by dumping?