§ 30. Sir H. SAMUELasked the President of the Board of Trade whether the present negotiations with foreign countries for reduction of tariffs are being conducted on the basis that the most-favoured-nation clause in our commercial treaties is to be maintained?
§ Dr. BURGINAs a general rule the negotiations are being conducted on the basis of the most-favoured-nation clause in existing treaties but His Majesty's Government must be guided in the case of each particular country by the circumstances.
§ Mr. MANDERIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the Secretary of State for War and the Minister of Agriculture in an interview with a Danish paper said that they are doubtful of the value of negotiating on those lines, and is that the view of the Government?
§ Dr. BURGINI can only deal with the question on the Paper. The answer is as I have given it, that as a general rule these negotiations are being conducted on that basis, but particular cases must be dealt with in a particular manner.
§ Mr. T. WILLIAMSCan the hon. Gentleman say whether, from the whole of 1577 the discussions and negotiations which have taken place, any results have so far been achieved?