HC Deb 23 May 1933 vol 278 cc919-20
27. Captain PETER MACDONALD

asked the President of the Board of Trade what steps he proposes to take to get the Government of Ceylon to improve the present range of preferences granted by them on their imports from Great Britain, particularly with regard to cotton goods and motor cars?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

The Board of Trade have no powers to take steps in this matter.

Captain MACDONALD

Does the right hon. Gentleman think that the Ceylon Government are acting fairly in this matter in view of the fact that they have enjoyed a free market for all their exports to this country for many months?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I am not prepared to express any opinion on matters that lie outside the duties of the Board of Trade.

Captain MACDONALD

What Department is affected, as I was informed by the Colonial Office that it was a Board of Trade matter?