§ 14 and 16. Mr. REMERasked the President of the Board of Trade (1) if the question of imports of real silk into this country will be kept in the forefront of the discussions between himself and the Japanese delegates at present in this country and in India;
(2) if, in any negotiations with the Japanese Government which are now proceeding, he will take into consideration the pledges given by the Chancellor of the Exchequer in his Budget speech, and in the subsequent Debates on the Finance Bill, to the silk industry, that they would receive the benefits of protection given to every other industry in this country?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANThe interests of the silk industry will, of course, be carefully borne in mind in any negotiations between the Government and foreign countries, but I must point out that the discussions now pending with Japanese representatives in this country are not between Governments, but between representatives of industries.
§ Mr. REMERAre discussions taking place, as between the representatives of the silk industry and the Japanese representatives?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANThe discussions are taking place as between the representatives of the textile industry, but as to whether the silk industry is represented I could not say without notice.
§ Mr. REMERIn view of the unsatisfactory nature of the right hon. Gentleman's answer, I beg to give notice that I will raise this matter on the Motion for Adjournment at the earliest opportunity.
§ 15. Mr. REMERasked the President of the Board of Trade if, in any discussions with the French Government with reference to a trade agreement, he will undertake that the promises given by the Chancellor of the Exchequer in his last Budget speech and during the Debates on the last Finance Bill as to the Silk Duties will be taken into consideration in any agreements which he may make with France?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANIn the event of negotiations for a new commercial treaty with France being undertaken, all relevant considerations will be borne in mind.