asked the Secretary of State for Industry, Trade and Regional Development what is the general level of present United Kingdom tariffs on iron and steel tubes, pipes and fittings.

The rate is 17½ or 20 per cent. The corresponding E.F.T.A. rate is 7 per cent. or 8 per cent. Imports qualifying for Commonwealth preference are duty free.

Are these exceptionally high tariffs imposed because British prices for these products are too high and inflexible? May I ask the Minister whether he is aware that the export of these products from France and Germany has risen much more rapidly than British exports? Is not the reason for this performance the fact that British prices are high, and that restrictive agreements have adversely affected our exports and the work available to the men in the industry?

I would not accept the hon. Gentleman's argument. In 1962 our exports of iron and steel tubes, pipes, and fittings were equivalent to 30 per cent. of home production, whereas imports were equivalent to less than 1 per cent. of home production.

As regards tariff rates, it is always open to representative bodies of users or producers to make application to the Board of Trade for changes. We have had no such application.

Will the hon. Gentleman say whether the object of high tariffs is to put up the price of tubes against the British consumer or to make it quite certain that Stewarts & Lloyds have enough money for political propaganda?

With respect to the hon. and learned Gentleman, I deplore the last part of his supplementary question. The fact of the matter is that the Kennedy Round is now in prospect and we have to consider our negotiating position on particular products at this time.

Does the hon. Gentleman deplore the political propaganda of Stewarts & Lloyds?

I do not deplore the political propaganda of any concern which is anxious to defend itself against the misjudged plans of the Opposition.