§ 25. Mr. Bryant Godman Irvineasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what representations he is making with a view to improving the unfavourable place Fiji occupies in the Australian tariff structure as a result of the Ottawa Conference of 1932.
§ Mrs. WhiteNone, Sir. This question was closely examined with the Australian Government a few years ago, but G.A.T.T. difficulties and the position of other Commonwealth countries precluded any worthwhile action. The situation has not changed since then.
§ Mr. IrvineWill the hon. Lady have another look at the situation? Is not she aware that the position today is very different from the one in which the island found itself in 1932? In these circumstances, ought not she to try to make representations on behalf of the industrial development of Fiji to see that it gets a better share of the Australian market?
§ Mrs. WhiteThis question may have to be considered as part of the far wider one of arrangements under G.A.T.T. for less developed countries.