59. Mr. BARNESasked the Prime Minister if there is any blockade on Russia by the ships of this country?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe reply is in the negative.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYIf there is no blockade, why should export licences have to be obtained for goods going into Russia?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThat is a different question. It is not proposed to remove the licences until there is a clear understanding on two or three essential matters.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYThen we are to understand that there is a blockade, but it is not called a blockade?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThat is a very different matter. It is a question of resuming trading relations, and we can only resume trading relations upon the clear and distinct terms we have laid down, and, unless those terms are accepted, we certainly cannot withdraw the licences.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYWill the House be told what those terms are?
§ The PRIME MINISTERCertainly. I shall be pleased to state to the House what those terms are, and I hope Russia will understand what those terms are. However, I do not wish at the present moment to state them.