HC Deb 07 April 1936 vol 310 cc2580-1
22. Mr. LEVY

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, having regard to the decision of the Indian Legislative Assembly which has been accepted by the Government of India that the trade agreement between India and the United Kingdom should be denounced, he will give consideration to the question of the removal of the duty of 10 per cent. ad valorem on foreign linseed as soon as the trade agreement with India is terminated; and whether at the same time he will request the Import Duties Advisory Committee to consider what modifications in consequence will be necessary in the duties on linseed oil and of her goods into the manufacture of which linseed oil enters?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

His Majesty's Government have not received any notification of the intention of the Government of India to terminate the Ottawa Trade Agreement, but, if they do, the question of continuing the duty on foreign linseed and any consequential questions will fall to be considered in any negotiations that ensue.

28. Mr. LIDDALL

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the decision of the Indian Government to terminate the Ottawa Trade Agreement, he will review the clause in the Import Duties Act giving free entry into this country to all goods from Empire sources which are not covered by any other enactment?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

His Majesty's Government have not received any official notification of the intention of the Government of India to terminate the Ottawa Trade Agreement, but, if they do, the question of continuing free entry for Indian goods will fall to be considered in any consequent negotiations.

Sir P. HANNON

Did the President of the Board of Trade hear the reply given to me yesterday by the Under-Secretary of State for India that the Government of India would consider the cancellation of the Ottawa Agreement?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

That emphasises what I said in my answer, that the question of continuing free entry for Indian goods will fall to be considered in any consequent negotiations.

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