§ 42. Mr. MANDERasked the President of the Board of Trade whether, prior to the introduction of the duty on carbons, any negotiations took place with, or undertaking was given by, the Process Engravers Association representing those engaged in the process engraving industry?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Dr. Burgin)No representations on the subject were made to the Board of Trade by the Process Engravers Association, and the hon. Member will be aware that it would be contrary to precedent to inform interested parties of the contents of a Budget resolution imposing higher taxation on commodities before it is introduced.
§ Mr. MANDERIs it not obvious that, as nobody knew about the impending duty, they could not possibly make representations; and will the hon. Gentleman be prepared to receive a deputation from this association?
§ Dr BURGINI think it was made clear when the matter was dealt with in debate that the Department would be prepared to receive representations from organised persons.
§ Mr. MANDERIs the hon. Gentleman prepared to receive a deputation?
§ Dr. BURGINCertainly.
§ Sir PERCY HARRISThough apparently the hon. Gentleman was not prepared to receive representations from the Process Engravers Association, did he not receive representations from the Cinema Association and also the producers of this particular carbon in this country; and were not they given special favour over the process engravers?
§ Dr. BURGINNo, Sir. No special favours were given to anybody.