HC Deb 20 July 1933 vol 280 cc1986-7
43. Mr. H. WILLIAMS

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether the Import Duties Advisory Committee will be free from the date of the adjournment of the World Economic Conference to recommend increased import duties and the Treasury to make orders giving effect to such recommendations in respect of applications made after 12th May?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

In the terms of the resolution adopted on 12th May by the Organising Committee of the World Economic Conference, the Govern- ments concerned agreed that they would not adopt any new initiatives in the matter of tariffs before 12th June nor during the proceedings of the conference, except that in the case of any individual Government power was reserved to withdraw at any time after 31st July, 1933, on giving one month's notice to that effect. In the view of His Majesty's Government the Governments which subscribed to that resolution remain bound by its terms during any adjournment of the conference, until its proceedings are finally concluded.

Mr. WILLIAMS

Am I to understand from that answer that this country is bound for an indefinite period not to impose increased duties in certain cases? In these circumstances, will His Majesty's Government give the necessary one month's notice at the end of this month?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

We are not bound for an indefinite period, because we have reserved the right to withdraw at any time after the 31st July, on one month's notice being given.

Mr. WILLIAMS

May I take it that that notice will be given?

Mr. HORE-BELISHA

It depends whether there is cause to give notice, and what is the view of His Majesty's Government on that cause.

Lieut.-Colonel ACLAND-TROYTE

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that this tariff truce is entirely against our interests?