HC Deb 12 November 1953 vol 520 cc1121-2
14. Mr. G. Williams

asked the President of the Board of Trade if, after his successful agreement at the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, he will now state what his proposals are to protect British horticulture.

32. Brigadier Medlicott

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will make a statement as to the steps he contemplates taking in the near future for the further protection and assistance of British horticulturists following on his successful negotiations under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

I have nothing to add at this stage to the statement which I made after Questions on 27th October and the reply which I then gave to a supplementary question from my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for South Angus (Captain Duncan). We are, at present, dealing with a number of horticultural items under the procedures which were agreed recently at Geneva.

Brigadier Medlicott

Is my right hon. Friend aware that British horticulturists fully accept the necessity of imports from overseas, but that it is the timing of these imports that is of importance? Will he continue to use his best endeavours to ensure that the home producers are given a fair run in the home market before imports come in?

Mr. G. Williams

Could the President let us know how long it will take to increase the tariffs, if it is found necessary, and how long it will take to take them off, if that course should be found necessary? Will he continue the system of quotas so long as he can do so under the E.P.U. arrangements?

Mr. Thorneycroft

I have already explained to the House what were the procedures arranged at Geneva. There is a 30-day period during which objections can be taken to certain goods, and we must certainly wait for the expiration of that time before I can make any further statement.