HC Deb 23 February 1933 vol 274 c1894
45. Mr. ALEXANDER RAMSAY

asked the Prime Minister if he proposes to set up any machinery for the purpose of supervising the working of the Ottawa Agreements in the interests of British industry and commerce?

The PRIME MINISTER

The working of the Ottawa Agreements, in relation to the interests of the industry and commerce of this country, is continuously under review by my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade, in consultation with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs. I see no reason, therefore, for setting up any special machinery.

Mr. RAMSAY

Does my right hon. Friend not think that the existing Government Departments are sufficiently occupied with their statutory duties, and in view of the great importance of developing Empire trade, does he not think it wise to appoint a special authority to deal with this matter?

The PRIME MINISTER

Yes, but for the wider question now raised, as my hon. Friend knows, there is a specially appointed committee which is still sitting and has not finished its work.