TRADE RELATIONS

Waikato Times, Volume 129, Issue 21480, 23 July 1941, Page 6

TRADE RELATIONS

AUSTRALIA AND AMERICA SUPPLIES TO BRITAIN RECIPROCAL PROPOSAL (United Press Assn.— Elec. Tel. Copyright) CANBERRA, July 22 An official Commonwealth delegation will leave Australia for the i United States soon for important dis- | cussions which, it is understood, may affect the trade structure of Britain, Australia, the United States and, to some extent, Canada. It is believed that the proposals to be discussed will include the following:— (1) The supply to Britain by the United States of primary products which Australia can no longer export to Britain because of shipping difficulties. (2) The export of Australian primary produce to the United States to make up these deficiencies. (3) Tariff concessions by Australia to the United States and the revision of the import licensing system adopted by Australia to conserve dollar exchange. A complete reorientation of trade relations between Australia and the United States is felt by both countries to be a logical sequel to the American lease and lend legislation. An indication has been given that America is anxious for a reciprocal trade arrangement, at least for the duration of the war. It is understood that the United States has asked for more favoured treatment for certain products under the Australian tariff, 1 in view of benefits which will accrue to Australia under the Lend and Lease Act. Canada would be interested in the proposed trade scheme as it would almost certainly mean a modification of the Ottawa Agreement.