HC Deb 06 March 1935 vol 298 cc1941-2
53 and 54. Captain STRICKLAND

asked the President of the Board of Trade (1) whether he is aware that the Italian Government has imposed a quota of 25 per cent. of the normal trade on British motor-cycles and motor-cycle parts imported into that country; and whether that 25 per cent. is to be subject to (the recent heavy increase in import duties?

(2) on what date his Department first received information of the intention of the Italian Government to increase the duties and to impose a quota on British motor-cycles and motor-cycle parts; what steps have been taken to assist the industry; and with what result?

Lieut.-Colonel J. COLVILLE (Secretary, Overseas Trade Department)

The first intimation of the Italian Government's decree increasing the duties on motor-cycles and motor-cycle parts was received by the Board of Trade on the 29th December, 1934. A request for the admission at the previous rate of duty of motor-cycles and parts en route at the date of the increase was made to the Italian Government, but they did not see their way to agree. Under the Italian decree of 16th February last, quotas were imposed on practically all goods imported into Italy as from 19th February. In the case of motor-cycles and parts the quota up to the 31st March is 25 per cent. of the imports in the corresponding period of last year. The increased import duties will apply to all imports of the goods in question which fall within this permitted percentage. The whole question of the new import restrictions is being actively pursued with the Italian Government.

Captain STRICKLAND

May I ask whether the hon. and gallant Member is perfectly satisfied that there has been no discriminatory tariff in this connection, and whether he also realises that a loss of 75 per cent. in trade is a very serious matter to such cities as Coventry?

Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLE

The loss of trade is a serious matter. As regards discrimination, if the hon. and gallant Member will refer to the answer given by the President of the Board of Trade yesterday, he will see that this matter is under examination, and in the event of there being discrimination active steps will be taken.