§ 82. Mr. HUME-WILLIAMSasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether any and, if so, what steps are being taken to form a corporation, with Government support, to encourage and develop the trade between Great Britain and Russia on the lines recently adopted in the formation of a corporation with similar objects in regard to the trade between Great Britain and Italy; whether he will consider if the time is now ripe for the formation of such a corporation; and whether he will take immediate steps to encourage its development?
§ Mr. McKENNANo such proposal is at present before me. As I explained in reply to a supplementary question on the 31st July, I should be prepared to consider such a suggestion if a suitable arrangement were proposed. My hon. and learned Friend will, however, understand that in this matter the Treasury is bound to act in the first instance on the recommendation of the Board of Trade.
§ Mr. HUME-WILLIAMSDoes not the right hon. Gentleman think there is a promising yield, and is not this the time to start operations?
§ Mr. McKENNAI think that question should be addressed to the Board of Trade.