§ 33. Mr. WHYTEasked the Prime Minister if he is prepared to give his consideration to the suggestion that part of the share holding of the British Government in Suez Canal shares should be distributed among the principal Dominions in order to obtain for the Empire more effective representation on the board of the company?
§ Mr. BALDWINThere are at present three official British directors on the board of the Suez Canal Company and also seven unofficial British directors representing British shipping and commercial interests. I have considered the suggestion referred to in the question, but, as at present advised, I do not think it would be practicable to adopt it.
§ Mr. ROBINSONIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that a reduction in the dues of the Suez Canal would be of great assistance to the Lancashire cotton industry in meeting Japanese competition in India?
§ Mr. H. WILLIAMSHow much would we have to increase our taxation if the dues were reduced?