HC Deb 16 December 1935 vol 307 cc1387-8
77. Mr. STEPHEN

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been drawn to the large increase of imports of leather from the Empire countries of Australia, Canada and India into the United Kingdom under the terms of the Ottawa Agreement free of duty; and whether it is proposed to continue the present arrangements after the termination of the present agreement in 1937?

The PRESIDENT of the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. Runciman)

I am aware that imports from the countries referred to in the question of some classes of leather have increased in recent years, but I am unable to make any statement as to the position on the termination of the Ottawa Agreements.

Mr. STEPHEN

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in the tanning industry there is discontent owing to this large increase of imports?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

If the hon. Gentleman will send me details, I will take them into consideration.

Mr. H. G. WILLIAMS

Has not my right hon. Friend already had representations from the interests concerned?