HC Deb 19 July 1938 vol 338 cc1959-60
2. Mr. H. G. Williams

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, having regard to the fact that our recent trade agreements with foreign countries are now all terminable on short notice, he will ensure that no trade agreement with the United States of America will tie our hands for a longer period than we are already tied under existing agreements with foreign countries?

The President of the Board of Trade(Mr. Oliver Stanley)

I am unable to give the undertaking suggested.

Mr. Williams

Can my right hon. Friend give some assurance that no commitments will be entered into which will paralyse British agriculture for a further period?

Mr. Stanley

We do not intend to enter into any commitments which will paralyse any form of industry.

Mr. Leach

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that this request is for short-period agreements, however favourable they may be, and will he turn down so stupid a suggestion?

15. Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has any statement to make concerning the progress of the Anglo-American trade pact negotiations?

Mr. Stanley

I am unable at present to add to the reply which I gave to the hon. Member for Burnley (Mr. Burke) on 31st May.

Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

Can the right hon. Gentleman state approximately when he will be able to make a statement? Will it be before the House rises?

Mr. Stanley

No, Sir, I am afraid that I could not.

Mr. Ellis Smith

Can the right hon. Gentleman give an assurance that during the Recess no vested interest will stand in the way of an agreement being arrived at between America and Great Britain?