HC Deb 24 June 1925 vol 185 c1502
18. Mr. MACKINDER

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware that under the terms of the Russian-Italian Treaty of Commerce and Navigation, which was approved of by the Italian Chamber, on 4th June, 1925, Italian merchandise entering the Russian market will enjoy reductions of import duties; and whether, in view of the advantages which the Treaty will confer on Italian as compared with British manufactures, His Majesty's Government will take the necessary steps to negotiate a similar treaty to replace the trade agreement with the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The answer to the second part of the question is in the negative.

Mr. MACKINDER

Is the right hon. Gentleman prepared to consider making some sort of trade agreement which will bring trade to this country and reduce the unemployment?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I do not observe that the Soviet-Italian Agreement has brought much grist to the Italian mill.

Mr. MACKINDER

Not at present.