§ 27. Mr. Rileyasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether, in view of the difficulty of finding markets for the whole of the West Indian exports, His 1426 Majesty's Government will consider initiating negotiations on behalf of the West Indian Colonies for a reciprocity trade agreement between the U.S.A. and the British West Indies.
§ Colonel StanleyBritish West Indian Colonies are already included in the scope of the Trade Agreement of 1938 between the United Kingdom and the United States of America. Such difficulties as at present exist in finding markets for West Indian exports are mainly due to war conditions and particularly limitations of shipping. I do not consider that any useful purpose would be served at present by considering negotiations as proposed in the second part of the question. I should, of course, be happy to consider any particular difficulties if the hon. Member will let me know what he has in mind.