§ 30. Sir J. Duncanasked the President of the Board of Trade what representations he is making to the Australian Government regarding the increase in the duty from 27½ per cent. to the equivalent of 48 per cent. on the importation of flax into Australia, including those goods which are now in transit; and what effect this increase in tariffs will have on the exports of the British flax trade.
§ Mr. N. MacphersonI assume my hon. Friend to be referring to the recent change in the duty on canvas and duck of flax previously dutiable at 27½ per cent. The new duty on these goods was imposed in accordance with the terms and procedure laid down in our trade agreement and there are no grounds on which my right hon. Friend could base 193 representations. It will take some time before the effect on our trade can be judged.
§ Sir J. DuncanWill my hon. Friend convey the feeling of the flax industry to his right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations so that he may talk to Mr. Menzies when he goes there shortly, and point out that, as the flax industry can hope for nothing in the Common Market, it is very important that it should retain its traditional Empire and Commonwealth connection?
§ Mr. MacphersonThe Association of Flax Spinners and Manufacturers has already made representations to my right hon. Friend, and I shall certainly pass on to my right hon. Friend what my hon. Friend has said.