HC Deb 29 November 1938 vol 342 cc239-40
47. Mr. A. Henderson

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the changed economic and commercial conditions resulting from trade drives by countries organised on a totalitarian basis, he will appoint a committee, on similar lines to the Vansittart Committee, to investigate the possibilities of establishing machinery which will enable this country to compete with totalitarian countries on fair terms?

The Prime Minister

An investigation such as the hon. Member suggests would necessarily involve consideration of our trading relations with almost every country, and, therefore, could not be limited to the particular subject mentioned. In these circumstances, I do not think that any useful purpose would be served by the appointment of a committee as suggested by the hon. Member. As regards the policy of His Majesty's Government for dealing with this problem, I would refer to the statement made in this House by my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade on 1st November, to which at present there is nothing to add.

Mr. Henderson

May I ask the Prime Minister whether the President of the Board of Trade did not draw attention to the new technique which is being followed by totalitarian countries with regard to their export trade, when he suggested that some steps must be taken to deal with this problem? Are the Government giving this matter their very serious consideration?

The Prime Minister

I think that if the hon. Member has read the speech which my right hon. Friend made, as I understand he has, he will know that my right hon. Friend did make some suggestions as to the way in which it might be met.

Mr. Henderson

Are those suggestions being carried out?