HC Deb 27 May 1936 vol 312 c2014
62. Mr. GLEDHILL

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether his attention has been drawn to the recent increase in the duty on spun-silk yarns entering India from 25 per cent. ad valorem to 25 per cent. ad valorem plus 14 annas per pound without any preference in respect of yarns of British origin; and whether he proposes to make any representations on the matter to the Government of India?

Captain EUAN WALLACE (Secretary, Overseas Trade Department)

Yes, Sir. The recent increase in the import duty on these yarns was in accordance with the recommendation of the Tariff Board, and I fear that there are no grounds for requesting reconsideration at the present time.

Mr. H. G. WILLIAMS

Has my hon. and gallant Friend thought of asking whether the Government of India would consider giving some preference to British yarns?

Captain WALLACE

As my hon. Friend will know, the Government of India have denounced the Ottawa Agreement. We shall certainly bear the question in mind.

Mr. GLEDHILL

Is my hon. and gallant Friend aware that these extra duties make British prices quite impossible in competition?