HC Deb 28 March 1939 vol 345 cc1862-3
9. Mr. Foot

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether His Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom and the Government of India have yet agreed upon the date for bringing into force the Anglo-Indian Trade Agreement; and what, if any, legislative measures will require to be taken in the United Kingdom in order to implement the said agreement?

Mr. Stanley

Article 16 of the agreement provides that it shall come into force on a date to be mutually agreed between the two Governments, and that meanwhile the two Governments will apply its provisions as far as possible. The date in question has not yet been formally agreed upon. So far as the United Kingdom is concerned, no legislation is required to enable immediate effect to be given to the provisions of the agreement other than those expressed to come into force at a future date. For these and for certain formal purposes legislation will be required before the end of this session.

Mr. Foot

Is it intended that the House shall have an opportunity of considering the agreement before it comes into effect?

Mr. Stanley

The position in regard to agreements and the responsibility of the Government has often been discussed in the House. There will be some legislation connected with this agreement which will enable the matter to be discussed.

Mr. Foots

Is it not a fact that this agreement runs for three years and ties our hands for that time? Ought not the House, therefore, to have an opportunity of looking into it?

Mr. Stanley

It has always been laid down that agreements of this kind are the responsibility of the Government. I am responsible to the House for the Board of Trade and for the course taken by the Government.

Mr. Foot

Is it not a fact that until 1932 there was always a definition clause to these agreements?