HC Deb 05 March 1931 vol 249 cc617-8W
Mr. HAMMERSLEY

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether any representations have been made by His Majesty's Government on the subject of the proposed increased cotton duties; and, if so, will he circulate the text of the correspondence?

Mr. W. GRAHAM

As regards the first part of the question, I would refer to the reply which was given yesterday by my hon. Friend the Parliamentary Secretary to the questions asked by the hon. and learned Member for Moss Side (Sir G. Hurst) and the hon. and gallant Member for Clitheroe (Sir W. Brass). As regards the second part, my hon. Friend indicated yesterday the substance of the representations which I made on this subject, and I do not think that any useful purpose would be served by giving further details.

Mr. HAMMERSLEY

asked the President of the Board of Trade at what date His Majesty's Government were made privy to the proposals of the Government of India to increase the Customs duties on imported cotton goods?

Mr. GRAHAM

On 22nd January.

Mr. HAMMERSLEY

asked the Secretary of State for India whether, in view of the intention of the Government of India to increase the Customs duties on cotton goods by 5 per cent., the existing preferences on certain types of cotton goods to this country will be increased pari passu?

Mr. BENN

No, Sir. The existing preference on British goods of the types referred to is unaffected by the proposal.