§ Mr. Baldwinasked the President of the Board of Trade if he is yet in a position to make a further statement about the application from the National Farmers' Unions for an increase in the tariff on fresh apples and pears.
§ Sir D. EcclesHer Majesty's Government have been giving careful consideration to the question of the long-term arrangements for imports of apples and pears into the United Kingdom in connection with the National Farmers Unions' application for increased tariff protection. They have reached the conclusion that it will not be practicable in the foreseeable future, in view of our international commitments, to revise the import duties on these products.
Meanwhile, quantitative restrictions on the import of a number of goods, including apples and pears, continue to be necessary for balance of payments reasons.
When such quota restrictions can no longer be justified on balance of payments 128W grounds the Government will give the interests concerned a full opportunity before the restrictions are removed to discuss what arrangements may then be necessary in the light of the circumstances prevailing at the time.