HC Deb 28 May 1936 vol 312 cc2191-2
65. Sir COOPER RAWSON

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that the imports of crushed granite from Norway trebled between 1932 to 1935; what is the present import duty; and, if for the, purposes of a trade agreement with Norway it is necessary for some section of British industry to make sacrifices, whether he will, in renewing the existing agreement with Norway, transfer the burden from the granite industry, where 20 per cent. are unemployed, to some other industry more fortunately situated?

Captain WALLACE

I am aware that there has been an increase in imports of granite chippings and crushed macadam from Norway, but such imports are small compared with total imports or with home production. The present import duty is 10 per cent. ad valorem. With regard to the last part of the question, the interests of the British granite industry will be considered, equally with those of other British industries, in any negotiations that may be opened for the revision of the Anglo-Norwegian Trade Agreement.

Mr. LYONS

Will my hon. and gallant Friend consider, in the interests of the Leicestershire industry, asking the Advisory Committee to make a recommendation on this matter?

Captain WALLACE

It is not for us to ask the committee; it is for the industry to ask them.

Mr. PETHERICK

Will my hon. and gallant Friend make it clear that the Government intend, in these negotiations, to pay particular attention to those trades in which unemployment is highest?

Captain WALLACE

The Government are doing the best they can for all trades, taking them by and large.