HC Deb 02 February 1931 vol 247 cc1451-2W
Duchess of ATHOLL

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that the Brazilian Government have just issued decrees raising the duties of raw jute from £l 9s. 3d. per ton to £21 18s. 9d., on grey yarn from £7 6s. 2d. per ton to £46 15s. 9d., and on coloured yarn from £9 10s. 2d. per ton to £61 8s. 5d.; that these duties seriously affect the export trade to Brazil, more especially of grey yarn in which there is a large trade; and what steps he has taken, or proposes to take, in the matter, more especially in the interests of current contracts?

Mr. W. GRAHAM

I am aware of the heavy increase in the Brazilian import duties on jute and jute yarns imposed by a recent decree, which also made certain other tariff alterations. In view of the importance of the British export trade involved, His Majesty's Representative at Rio de Janeiro approached the Brazilian Government in the matter and I understand that a decree has now been issued which postpones the date of any land each year from 1924–25 till the present year; and the approximate area drained in each year, distinguishing arable from pastoral?

Mr. W. ADAMSON

The particulars are as follows:

increases until 1st April, and that before this date the question of the duties is likely to receive further consideration.