HC Deb 30 January 1934 vol 285 cc176-7
8. Mr. HANNON

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether the negotiations with the Spanish Government in relation to the duty on motor cars of British manufacture entering Spain being on the same basis of import duty as cars imported from France have been completed; and from what date the rebate on British cars becomes operative?

Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLE

Yes, Sir; the concession to French cars has been extended to cars of United Kingdom origin with effect as from 1st October last.

Mr. HANNON

In cases such as this, may I ask again whether, if action of this kind is taken by the Spanish or any other Government, retaliatory measures will at once be taken so that this country can exercise its rights?

Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLE

We have obtained satisfaction without resorting to retaliatory measures, but, if necessary, they are there to be used.

Mr. HANNON

But is not the process of getting satisfaction entirely too slow in dealing with these cases?