HC Deb 30 June 1936 vol 314 cc202-3
18. Mr. LOUIS SMITH

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will consider taking action to restrict the giving of most-favoured-nation treatment to those nations with whom satisfactory trade agreements with us already exist, and to arrange for the charging of higher duties on the imports of other nations?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

As I have previously stated in this House, His Majesty's Government would not propose to accord most-favoured-nation treatment indefi- nitely to any country which is not prepared to meet the reasonable requirements of this country in regard to the treatment of United Kingdom goods. Any such case would, however, require consideration as and when it may arise in the light of all the circumstances.

Mr. SMITH

Does the right hon. Gentleman not think that in granting this most-favoured-nation treatment he is materially adding to the rapid rise in the adverse balance of trade?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

No, Sir. I cannot accept that as a full and complete statement.

Mr. PETHERICK

May I ask what the right hon. Gentleman means by the expression "indefinitely," in his answer? How long does it mean?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

"Indefinitely" means a time which is not specified.