12. Sir JOHN WARD LAW-MILNEasked the Secretary of State for the 746 Colonies whether he is in a position to give the House any information as to the progress of the negotiations for rubber restriction?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Sir Philip Cunliffe-Lister)I understand that discussions have taken place between certain English and Dutch rubber producers. No negotiations are in progress between the two Governments.
§ Sir J. WARDLAW-MILNEWill the right hon. Gentleman consider the desirability of making a further statement publicly regarding this matter, so that there should be no doubt in the minds of the producers as to what is the policy of the Government?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERI have made a very plain statement in answer to the hon. Gentleman's question, which I think is very opportune. As regards the last attempt at negotiation, I made a very full statement in this House as to the conclusions arrived at by our Government and other Governments.
Sir J. WARD LAW-MILNEMay I take it from the right hon. Gentleman's first reply that no request for negotiation with the Dutch Government has been made?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERWe have received no request from the Dutch Government of any sort or kind.