§ 22. Mr. A. Hendersonasked the Prime Minister, whether he will state to what extent the French Government are prohibiting the importation of Japanese goods into French territories; whether such action is being taken in pursuance of League resolutions; and whether His Majesty's Government propose to take similar action.
§ Mr. ButlerFrom the official publications of the French Government relating to the Notes exchanged with the Japanese Government in February and September, 1938, and to the Decree of 27th April last instituting a system of consular certificates, it is clear that their object in taking powers to place certain restrictions on the importation of Japanese products was to secure guarantees for the importation of French products into Japan and for the transfer of the exchange necessary 2689 to pay for them. It would not be possible to say to what extent the operation of these measures involves actual exclusion of Japanese goods. His Majesty's Government are watching closely the treatment of British trade interests in territories under Japanese control, with a view to taking any appropriate steps for the protection of those interests that may at any time appear necessary and possible.
§ Mr. HendersonWould it not be better for His Majesty's Government to act jointly with the French Government in these matters?
§ Mr. ButlerThere are certain difficulties in doing that, but I can assure the hon. and learned Member that the French measures will receive the close consideration of His Majesty's Government.
§ Mr. DayCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether the action taken by the French Government has been satisfactory?
§ Mr. ButlerI said in my original answer that I could not say to what extent the operation of these measures would involve the actual exclusion of Japanese goods.