48. Mr. BECKETTasked the Prime Minister whether the Government intend to reopen negotiations with the Union of Socialist Soviet Republics Government with a view to removing any present difficulties in the way of extending export facilities and encouraging trade between the two peoples?
Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSONI have been asked to reply. The attitude of His Majesty's Government was defined in the replies given to the hon. Member for Lincoln on 9th December last and to the hon. Member for North Lambeth on 10th February.
Mr. BECKETTIs the hon. Gentleman aware that in the discussion in this House last week the opinion was expressed upon all sides of the House that it would be well for the two Governments to get together, and that there is nothing in the answer to which I am referred which suggests that His Majesty's Government is taking any action whatever?
Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSONIt was pointed out by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs a short time ago that in the opinion of His Majesty's Government the initiative in this matter now rests with the Soviet Government.
Mr. BECKETTIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the last step towards breaking off negotiations was taken by the present Government, and therefore it is open to them to state the conditions under which they are prepared to reopen negotiations?
§ Sir H. BRITTAINIs it not a fact that one of the best ways to increase further trade is to square up past accounts?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThis seems to be a resumption of last week's Debate.