HC Deb 12 November 1953 vol 520 c1121
13. Mr. G. Williams

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will give a list of productions that can now be protected without putting tariffs up to Commonwealth countries.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

I regret that it is not practicable to list all the products on which we can, in proved cases of need and subject to the conditions of the waiver of the no-new-preference rule, increase the duty without imposing a corresponding duty on the Commonwealth. This waiver and its conditions cover goods on which we have not bound the tariffs, and which have been traditionally admitted free of import duty when imported from the Commonwealth.

Mr. Williams

If the President is unable to give us a complete list, could he not help me by stating whether flower bulbs would be included?

Mr. Thorneycroft

If my hon. Friend wishes to ask me about specific items, perhaps he would do so either by putting down a Question or privately, when I will try to help him.

Mr. Bottomley

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is reported that the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations said in Australia today that the best way of affording protection to Australian goods was by a constant shortage of dollars? Is that the considered view of H.M. Government?

Mr. Thorneycroft

That raises an entirely different question.