§ 68. Mr. Dodds-Parkerasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps he is taking to protect the interests of the economy of, and the level of employment in, Jamaica in view of the recent trade agreement with Cuba and that the Jamaican cigar industry has already suffered a setback since 1947 as a result of the contraction in sales in the United Kingdom due to the high rate of duty and the reduction in spending power which has taken place since 1947.
§ Mr. CookNo trade agreement with Cuba has yet been made. Negotiations are still in progress and I cannot anticipate any possible decision.
§ 76. Mr. Osborneasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will give an assurance that the proposed agreement between Cuba and the United Kingdom will not be detrimental to the pineapple, cigar and sugar industries of Jamaica or contrary to the assurances given to Jamaica.
§ Mr. CookAs my right hon. Friend the then President of the Board of Trade stated on 15th March, no agreement will be made with Cuba which would prejudice the undertaking given to Commonwealth sugar producers by the United Kingdom when the Commonwealth Sugar Agreement was negotiated last year. His Majesty's Government are fully aware of and are bearing in mind Jamaican views 69W on questions of pineapples and cigars, but while trade discussions with Cuba are still in progress I can make no statement