– in the House of Commons am ar 5 Awst 1924.
asked the President of the Board of Trade what notice was given by the Japanese Government of its intention to enforce the new luxury tariff; whether he is aware that many contracts for forward delivery of British manufactured goods have been cancelled by Japanese buyers; and whether, in view of the hardship caused thereby to British manufacturers, His Majesty's Government will make representations to the Japanese Government with a view to obtaining an extension of the time before the tariff comes into operation?
Mr. WEBB:
The Japanese Bill for the new luxury duties was introduced on 6th July, and the duties came into force on 31st July. The answer to the second part of the question is in the affirmative. As regards the third part, I would refer the hon. Member to the answer given to the hon. and gallant Member for Maidstone on the 30th ultimo, a copy of which I am sending to him. It will be seen that a concession has already been secured, and that the British Government are endeavouring to obtain some further mitigation of the adverse effect due to the introduction of the new duties at short notice.
Would the right hon. Gentleman take into consideration the case of particular trades, like the Birmingham gun trade, which is very seriously affected, and make representations to the Japanese Government to stop the operation of this tariff?
Mr. WEBB:
That has already been done. We cannot say what the answer will be, but we are hopeful that some further concession will be made.
What will the approximate increase per cent. be?
Mr. WEBB:
I am sorry to say I have not that information. In view of the nature of the duties it would be very difficult to work it out.
Will the right hon. Gentleman consider circulating his answers on the subject to hon. Members on the other side of the House to consider in connection with their agitation for Protection?
Does the right hon. Gentleman think this action of the Japanese is a good reason for dropping the duties on Japanese glass-ware coming into this country?