§ 49. Mr. REMERasked the President of the Board of Trade if he can now make a statement as to the progress of the negotiations between the Lancashire and Japanese textile interests yesterday?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANAs my hon. Friend is no doubt aware, following a meeting with the Japanese delegation yesterday morning, the United Kingdom delegation stated in a Press communiqué that they had found it impossible to reach a basis for discussion and that nothing remained for them but to report this result to His Majesty's Government, at whose instance the meetings had taken place. The delegation reported accordingly yesterday afternoon. It will be remembered that these negotiations were arranged as a result of discussions between His Majesty's Government and the Government of Japan. That being so, it becomes necessary now for the two Governments to review the situation that arises as a result of the breakdown. I have accordingly arranged to see the Japanese Ambassador forthwith. It would be premature to make any further statement at the present time.
§ Mr. REMERIs it not a fact that these negotiations have been carried on for about 11 months and have the Government made up their mind as to their policy in dealing with matters connected with these negotiations, which have never, as a matter of fact, really began at all? [Interruption.] In view of the unsatisfactory reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise this matter upon the Adjournment at the earliest possible date.