HC Deb 25 April 1961 vol 639 cc224-5
30. Sir Harmar Nicholls

asked the President of the Board of Trade to what extent it is the policy of Her Majesty's Government mutually to agree with other countries to amend existing agreements connected with giving tax concessions to exporters; and what factors limit the pursuit of such a policy.

Mr. Erroll

The policy of Her Majesty's Government is to secure the elimination of export subsidies and to this end we have sought to strengthen the international rules which restrict the grant of tax concessions for exports. This policy enjoys the support of organised industry.

Sir Harmar Nicholls

Can my right hon. Friend confirm that in the event of our thinking it worth while to introduce a tax concession there would be nothing wrong in approaching other countries which would be affected to agree mutually to alter the internal terms?

Mr. Erroll

I would not care to answer a question as hypothetical as that.