HC Deb 01 March 1937 vol 321 cc16-7
35. Mr. Perkins

asked the Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs whether he can give an assurance to the House that in any future trade agreement made with the Australian Government British manufacturers will be afforded reasonable facilities for fair competition in the Australian market?

The Under-Secretary of State for Dominion Affairs (Marquess of Hartington)

It is doubtful whether any early negotiations are likely to be undertaken with His Majesty's Government in the Commonwealth of Australia for a revision of the trade agreement concluded at Ottawa in 1932. The point mentioned by my hon. Friend has been noted.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

Is it not the case that the Commonwealth of Australia gave us Imperial preference in 1903, 29 years before we did anything in return? Would not a little patience now be a good thing?

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