HC Deb 07 March 1935 vol 298 c2123
54. Mr. H. WILLIAMS

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can give the particulars of any cases in which the United States of America impose on British goods higher duties of customs than those imposed on goods from any other country which is not, directly or indirectly, under American protection?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

Countervailing duties are imposed in the United States on imports of yarns and fabrics of silk and artificial silk from the United Kingdom in respect of drawbacks granted on such goods on exportation from this country. With this exception the customs duties on United Kingdom goods are not higher than those on the goods of any foreign country other than Cuba which enjoys special preferences.

Mr. WILLIAMS

Is there no exception now in operation in the case of motor cars?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

I could not reply without notice.