§ 4. Mr. Jayasked the President of the Board of Trade what steps he is taking to seek the removal of obstacles to British motor car exports in oversea markets.
§ Mr. P. ThorneycroftMany countries admit British cars without restrictions. In recent negotiations with countries which do impose quota restrictions we have secured increased quotas for our motor cars from Finland, France, Italy, and Norway. Tariff concessions for our motor cars were also obtained at the recent G.A.T.T. tariff negotiations in Geneva.
§ Mr. JayIn the case of Australia, which has recently made import quota cuts on motor cars, can the President say whether he has represented to the Australian Government that this cut should be less heavy on sterling motor cars than on dollar ones?
§ Mr. ThorneycroftThe whole question of our trade relations with Australia is under discussion at present. I would not propose to embark on aspects of it in detailed answers to questions.
§ Mr. JayBut cannot the right hon. Gentleman say at least whether he has made representations on that matter which would be a help to Commonwealth trade as well as to the British motor car industry?
§ Mr. ThorneycroftNo; I do not propose to embark on any discussion of negotiations which are still in progress.