HC Deb 13 December 1938 vol 342 cc1781-2
24. Mr. Burke

asked the President of the Board of Trade the present position regarding the negotiations between the United Kingdom and India on the question of the import duties placed upon cotton goods exported from this country to India?

Mr. Stanley

It was stated in the Indian Assembly on 5th December that the Ottawa Agreement would not be continued beyond the next Budget Session of the Assembly. This decision does not imply any breakdown in the negotiations and, as stated in the answer I gave to my hon. and gallant Friends, the Members for Hulme (Sir J. Nall) and Accrington (Major Procter) on 22nd November, the whole matter is at the moment under the consideration of the Government of India.

Mr. Burke

Has the right hon. Gentleman any idea when I might put the question down again?

Mr. Stanley

No, Sir; I am afraid not. We are waiting until we receive notification of the decision of the Indian Government.

Mr. Shinwell

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise the need for an early decision on this matter, in view of the denunciation of the Ottawa Agreement by India?

Mr. Stanley

Yes, Sir, I am only too anxious to have an early decision if possible.

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