§ 64. Mr. H. G. Williamsasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will give an assurance that no commercial agreement will be entered into with the United States unless this House has first had an opportunity of considering the extent of the advantages proposed to be accorded to the United States?
§ Mr. R. S. Hudson (Secretary, Overseas Trade Department)The discussions with the United States Government as to the possibility of a trade agreement have not gone beyond the informal and exploratory stage. Should formal negotiations ensue and lead to an agreement, the normal practice, which provides opportunity for Parliamentary consideration, will be followed.
§ Mr. WilliamsIs the hon. Gentleman aware that considerable anxiety has been caused by the speech of His Majesty's representative in Washington in which he implied that special access would be given to agricultural goods entering this country? Is the hon. Gentleman aware of the very grave anxiety which exists concerning this matter?