HC Deb 02 February 1956 vol 548 cc1057-8
12. Mr. Bottomley

asked the President of the Board of Trade what representations have been made to him on behalf of the Government of Australia regarding the importation into the United Kingdom of subsidised foodstuffs and raw materials from other countries.

Mr. P. Thorneycroft

The Australian Government have on several occasions expressed concern to us on these matters. We have always kept in close touch with all Commonwealth countries on these issues and consider fully any representations they make to us.

Mr. Bottomley

Is the Minister aware that at the moment there is great discontent in Australia at Her Majesty's Government's trade policy? Is he further aware that at about this time last year the Prime Minister of Australia made representations, saying that if we did not import goods from Australia that country would have to make import cuts—cuts which were made subsequently—and that now the Australian Minister of Commerce has made a similar declaration? Does the President not think that he should make a statement to allay the fears in Australia and promote trade between the two countries?

Mr. Thorneycroft

As the right hon. Gentleman knows, very close consultations do take place now, as under the previous Government, before we make food arrangements under aid from the United States and other matters, and these consultations will continue.

Mr. Bottomley

Would the President consider issuing a public statement in answer to the Minister of Commerce in Australia?

Mr. Thorneycroft

The Australian Minister of Commerce made a statement concerning the import of certain apples, and a statement was issued upon that. It was not a very major matter, but I certainly will consider making any further statement necessary—or perhaps, more conveniently, communicate with the Australian Government.