§ 21. Mr. P. Smithersasked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in future, he will publish a list of items concerning the import and export of which it is proposed to hold commercial negotiations with foreign Powers, so that those who are interested may make representations before the commencement of such negotiations.
§ Mr. BottomleyArrangements already exist for consultation with industries likely to be affected by commercial negotiations with other countries before those negotiations begin. I am always glad to consider suggestions for improving the machinery of consultation, but, since it is by no means certain in advance what items will come up for consideration, it would not be practicable to publish lists, even if the procedure were acceptable to the other country concerned.
§ Mr. SmithersIs it not a fact that the usual practice in the United States, in advance of such negotiations, is for a list of the items upon which the negotiations will take place to be made widely known in trade circles? Why cannot that be done here in advance of the negotiations?
§ Mr. BottomleyI am not aware of what happens in the case of the United States, but I do know that the machinery that we have operates satisfactorily.