HC Deb 20 June 1934 vol 291 cc361-2
37. Mr. GRAHAM WHITE

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the recent ruling of the Supreme Court in Canada with regard to the powers and jurisdiction of the Tariff Board; and what action he proposes to take to ensure that effect will be given to this section of the Ottawa Agreements?

The SECRETARY of STATE for DOMINION AFFAIRS (Mr. J. H. Thomas)

I have seen only a telegraphic summary of the recent judgment of the Supreme Court of Canada in regard to the Canadian Tariff Board, and I am therefore not in a position to make any statement in the matter at present.

Mr. WHITE

If I put a question again next week, will the right hon. Gentleman give some information on the matter?

Mr. THOMAS

Yes, probably next week.

Sir PERCY HURD

Has my right hon. Friend's attention been called to an explanatory statement on the subject made by Mr. Bennett, the Prime Minister of Canada, and his protest against the misrepresentation that the Ottawa Agreements are not being fully honoured?

Mr. THOMAS

I have just said that I have seen only a telegraphic summary, and I prefer not to give a definite answer until I see the whole case.

Sir P. HURD

Has the right hon. Gentleman noticed the explanatory statement by Mr. Bennett?

Mr. THOMAS

I have seen Press statements to that effect.

Sir P. HARRIS

Has the right hon. Gentleman seen the opinion of Ottawa on the subject as reflected in the local elections in Ontario?

Mr. THOMAS

I have seen it, and I am sure my hon. Friend is envious that he does not live in Canada?