§ 13. Mr. MORGANasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, in view of the fact that at the present time imports of commodities into Palestine are approximately four times greater than exports, he will state what steps are being taken to use this fact to the advantage of Palestine by arranging trade agreements between Palestine and other countries which will guarantee expanding markets for her produce in future years?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for the COLONIES (Sir Philip Cunliffe-Lister)I am aware of the large excess of imports into Palestine over exports, which it is important to remember is closely associated with the large imports of capital now taking place into that country. It is a factor which is borne in mind in all trade negotiations between His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom and foreign countries, but my hon. Friend will appreciate that agreements with particular countries involving any discriminatory treatment in respect of Palestine would be contrary to the Mandate.