INDO-BRITISH TRADE.

HC Deb 07 July 1937 vol 326 c345

50. Mr. Shinwell

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can report progress as regards the negotiation of a new Indo-British trade treaty in place of the treaty arrived at as the result of the Ottawa Conference?

Mr. R. S. Hudson

I regret that I am not in a position at present to make a statement on the subject of these negotiations.

Mr. Shinwell

Is the Minister aware that there is considerable anxiety as to the working of the existing treaty, and is it not possible to expedite the making of a new arrangement?

Mr. Hudson

Negotiations are continuing, and already several meetings have been held. It would obviously be premature to make a statement until much nearer the conclusion.

Mr. Burke

Will the Minister keep in mind the position of the cotton trade?

Mr. Hudson

Yes, Sir, and all other trades as well.