§ 45. Captain P. MACDONALDasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the fact that the imports of manufactured goods into this country continue to increase despite the operations of the Tariff Advisory Committee, he will take steps to consider the whole effect of existing legislation in this respect with a view to an early alteration of policy, which would make the general system of protection more effective?
§ The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Ramsay MacDonald)I have no reason to think that the home market cannot be adequately protected under existing powers.
§ Captain MACDONALDIn view of the very large increase in imported manu- 1520 factured goods in recent months, does the right hon. Gentleman think that the present method of imposing tariffs is sufficiently flexible to safeguard the country's trade balance?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThat is the advice I have on the matter.
§ Mr. DAVID MASONIn view of the fact that the President of the Board of Trade has informed us that there is a large increase in the number of those employed, will the Prime Minister consider very carefully whether any alteration is necessary on the lines suggested?