§ 11. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the President of the Board of Trade if he will make a statement on his recent tour in Canada and South America, giving details of the opportunities for trade between those countries and Great Britain, with particular reference to Scottish products.
§ The President of the Board of Trade (Sir David Eccles)I would refer the hon. and learned Member to the replies given him on 15th May and 12th June.
§ Mr. HughesCan the right hon. Gentleman find out from Canada why some qualified British tradesmen, encouraged by Canadian Government grants and promises of employment, find themselves on arrival in Canada without adequate employment and unable to find employment and forced to return to this country? Is he aware that that has a direct bearing on the question of international trade with Canada?
§ Sir D. EcclesThat is another question altogether. I was asked about trade and opportunities for Scottish products, and I am glad to tell the hon. and learned Member that the Canadians seem very willing to buy Scottish products.
§ Mr. JayWhen the right hon. Gentleman was in Canada, did he discuss with the Canadian Government their proposal for raising tariffs on imports of wool cloth from Scotland and other parts of the United Kingdom?
§ Sir D. EcclesYes, Sir. I told them that it would be very disappointing if this result came about.