HC Deb 19 December 1957 vol 580 c607
45. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Prime Minister to what extent he was informed by the French Prime Minister, during his recent visit to France, about the French Government's intentions to restrict imports from Great Britain.

The Secretary of State for the Home Department and Lord Privy Seal (Mr. R. A. Butler)

I have been asked to reply.

This subject was not discussed during my right hon. Friend's visit to Paris last month.

Mr. Hughes

Does not the Lord Privy Seal realise that this is a very important matter which should have been discussed? Does he not realise that the French have now cut down imports of Scotch whisky from £500,000 a year to £130,000 a year? How can he expect the Entente Cordiale to continue if the present Government further antagonise public opinion in France? Will not the right hon. Gentleman mention this matter to the Prime Minister?

Mr. Butler

There is no question of the Government antagonising the French Government. The French Government have a perfect right to act as they think best. The Entente exists not only on whisky, but also on wine.