§ Sir W. Smilesasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is taking any steps to protect the Sea Island cotton industry of the West Indies; if he is aware that while the Sea Island cotton from the British West Indies to the United States of America pays an import duty of seven cents per pound, Florida ships Sea Island cotton duty-free to the United Kingdom; and is this matter being considered in the new trade agreement with the United States of America?
Mr. M. MacDonaldThe position of the West Indian Sea Island Cotton Industry has been engaging my attention for some time, and every endeavour is being made to secure satisfactory outlets for it in this country. I can make no statement at present as to the subjects included in the negotiations for a Trade Agreement with the United States.