HC Deb 16 June 1925 vol 185 cc255-7
8. Mr. TAYLOR

asked the President of the Board of Trade the volume and value of agricultural machinery exported from Great Britain and the United States of America to the Soviet Republics of Russia in the six months ended 31st March, 1925; and, if not, will he furnish figures for the latest date available?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

The trade accounts of the Soviet Republics show that during the five months ended 28th February, 1925, there were imported from the United Kingdom into the European and Caucasian territory of the Republics 82 metric tons of agricultural machinery, value at 33,000 gold roubles. Similar imports from the United States are not separately stated, nor does the official monthly summary of the commerce of the United States furnish particulars of such exports to Russia.

Mr. TAYLOR

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that between March and December last year, 3,000,000 dollars worth of agricultural machinery was exported from the United States to Russia?

Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTER

No, Sir, I have told the hon. Gentleman what information is available from the official report.

Mr. EVERARD

Has any payment been made for any of this machinery?

9. Mr. TAYLOR

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether every facility is accorded manufacturers of agricultural machinery in this country to trade with the Argentine and Russia; and whether, having regard to the extensive unemployment in the engineering trades, credit facilities would be afforded to reliable firms who made application for same?

Mr. A. M SAMUEL (Secretary, Overseas Trade Department)

Information regarding openings for trade in agricultural machinery is furnished by the Department of Overseas Trade in respect of any markets where such openings may occur. As regards credit facilities, the Export Credits Scheme, which is available for the Argentine and other countries, is not open, as the hon. Member is doubtless aware, for transactions with Russia. It is not proposed to make any change in this respect in its administration.

Mr. TAYLOR

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that trade between this country and Russia which would take place, were it not for political reasons arising out of the British Government's attitude, is being deliberately driven away from this country because of the inactivity of the Government?

Mr. SAMUEL

I do not agree.