§ 38. Mr. SCURRasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that a considerable and increasing volume of trade is taking place between Russia and Germany which is doing much to restore the national economy of Germany; that Russia, is obtaining large credits from Germany for 12 months and longer which is facilitating trade relationships between the countries; and whether, in view of trade depression in this country and the effects of competition of this character, he will take steps to bring about better trading relationships between this country and Russia?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERI am aware that there hits been some increase in the trade between Russia and Germany. But the amount appears to be only a small fraction of German trade, German exports to Russia during the first nine months of last year varying from 2 per cent. to 3 per cent. of total German exports. I am also aware that some credits have been given, though I do not know the amount. With reference to the last part of the question, I think that all the trade that is possible under present 821 conditions can be done under the Trade Agreement, and the volume of that trade must necessarily depend on the extent to which Russia establishes conditions which inspire confidence in traders.
§ Mr. BOOTHBYWill not the right hon. Gentleman consider very seriously the propriety of extending the export credit scheme to Russia so far as cured herrings are concerned?
§ Sir P. CUNLIFFE-LISTERI am afraid that even in the interest of the principal export commodity of my hon. Friend's constituency, it would be undesirable to upset the general and considered policy of His Majesty's Government.