§ 27 and 28. Commander Viscount CURZONasked the Prime Minister (1) whether it is still intended to insist that the Soviet Government desist from all form of propaganda against this country before sanctioning a resumption of trade with that country; whether the Government propose that trade should be resumed before the Soviet Government admits the future liability of the Russian debts to this and other countries;
(2) whether, if the Government authorise any resumption of trade with Soviet Russia, they will insist upon an adequate sum of gold being deposited in London as a guarantee for any transaction; and whether, should the sale of gold for such a purpose become necessary, the Government will stipulate that the price of sale must be that offered in London?
§ 43. Mr. ADAMSONasked the Prime Minister whether he is now in a position to make any statement regarding the ratification of the trade agreement with Russia?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI can add nothing to what I have said in reply to questions on this subject.
§ Viscount CURZONIs it not a fact all the questions so far have been concerned with the question of prisoners, and may I ask whether it is still a condition that propaganda must cease before we resume trade?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI think the answer I have given covers the whole of these cases. Before an agreement is signed, an opportunity will be given to the House of Commons to review the whole situation.
§ Mr. W. THORNEDid my right hon. Friend see the report in the paper the other day that the Americans had got contracts from Soviet Russia to the extent of six hundred millions? An hon. Member laughs, but, as a matter of fact, I think it is true, on account of the quantity of engines and rolling-stock the Soviet Government want, and that the American Government declare to some extent it is true?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI did see that, but it left on my mind the impression of an exaggeration.
§ Mr. THORNEThat may be, but it is nevertheless true.