§ 19. Mr. O'CONNORasked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been called to the fact that lace machinery imported from Great Britain into France bears a surtax of 15 per cent. over and above the import tax of 6 per cent., whereas no surtax is imposed upon identical German machinery; whether he is aware that this surtax prevents British manufacturers from competing in the French market against German manufacturers; and whether he will make representations to the French Government regarding this discriminatory tax?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANStrong representations on the subject of the surtax have already been addressed to the French Government, but so far without result. The whole question of discrimination in France against United Kingdom goods is at this moment receiving my serious consideration.
§ Mr. O'CONNORWill my right hon. Friend point out to the French Government that this amounts to a discriminatory tax against their late allies, and a preference in favour of their late enemies?
§ Mr. GRAHAM WHITEIs the right hon. Gentleman making full use of his bargaining powers in this connection?