§ 10. Mr. Russellasked the President of the Board of Trade if he will make a statement on the results of the trade talks between representatives of Commonwealth Governments which took place in Lon don in September.
Mr. H. WilsonThe economic and trade discussions between Commonwealth Ministers which took place in London between 18th and 22nd September were most valuable. Their purpose was to permit a frank and informal exchange of views between Commonwealth Ministers. It was not intended to reach any formal conclusions, decisions or recommendations to Governments. The subjects which came under review in the course of the discussions are indicated in the Press communique, issued at the conclusion of the talks, of which I am sending the hon. Member a copy.
§ Mr. RussellCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether any common policy was arrived at in regard to foreign countries at Torquay making further encroachments on Imperial preferences?
Mr. WilsonThere has been a considerable exchange of views on the question of tariffs, Imperial preferences and other questions that will, no doubt, be discussed at Torquay.
§ Captain DuncanWas the Secretary of State for the Colonies represented at this Conference?
§ Mr. HarrisonHas there been any indication among Commonwealth countries at the Havana and Torquay conferences to suggest an altered policy towards tariffs?
Mr. WilsonThe Torquay conference is of rather a limited character. We discussed at the Ministerial conference and at the pre-Torquay conference the line to be taken on tariffs.