§ 13. Mr. HALL-CAINEasked the President of the Board of Trade if he will state the number of countries with which bargaining over the imposition of Silk Duties has to be carried on; and when definite action in the direction of the imposition of such duties is to be expected?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANThe position of the Silk Duties in relation to trade negotiations now proceeding with France has been discussed with the representatives of the industry. So soon as these negotiations are brought to a satisfactory conclusion, it will, I hope, be possible to take immediate action in the matter.
§ 56. Mr. HANNON (for Mr. REMER)asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if a report has yet been issued from the Import Duties Advisory Committee as to the revision of the Silk Duties; and if he can make any statement on this matter?
Mr. CHAMBERLAINIn reply to the first part of the question I would refer my hon. Friend to the answer which was given to the hon. Member for Derby, South, on 22nd May, 1933, in which it was explained that it would not be in the public interest to answer questions of this nature. In reply to the second part, I am not yet in a position to make any statement on this matter.