HC Deb 04 July 1950 vol 477 c253
66. Mr. Drayson

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he has yet received a report from the United Kingdom High Commissioner in Canberra on his formal approach to the Australian Government expressing His Majesty's Government's concern at the increase in the British preferential tariff on rayon piece goods; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Bottomley

No, Sir. A reply has not yet been received from the Australian Government. Our High Commissioner in Canberra has been instructed to pursue the matter further. My right hon. Friend and I have also taken the opportunity of seeing the Australian Resident Minister in London and expressed to him the great concern of the United Kingdom Government regarding this matter.

Mr. Drayson

Can the Minister say when he expects to have a reply from the High Commissioner? Is he aware that this matter is causing consternation in Lancashire, and it is difficult for the businesses concerned, anxious to do trade with Australia, to get on until they know the position on this tariff, which has gone up from l½d. to 1s. 6d. per yard?

Mr. Bottomley

I am waiting for a reply.