HC Deb 03 December 1930 vol 245 cc2194-5
67. Sir K. WOOD

asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department what reply he has given to the proposal made by the Soviet Ambassador with the object of Great Britain granting long-term credits to Soviet Russia?

The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the BOARD of TRADE (Mr. W. R. Smith)

The Soviet Ambassador has made no proposal in the sense suggested by the light hon. Gentleman, though he has suggested that additional trade will result if more extended periods of credit were possible. If the right hon. Gentleman has the Export Credits Guarantee Scheme in mind, I would point out that the length of credit covered by guarantees under the Scheme is primarily a matter between exporters and the Export Credits Guarantee Department.

Sir K. WOOD

Has the hon. Member had any reply from the Soviet representatives?

Mr. SMITH

I can only add that the suggestion is one which must be dealt with by the exporters and the Export Credits Department.

Mr. WISE

Is the hon. Member aware of the very large increase in the exports of machinery from Italy since Signor Mussolini made such an agreement with the Soviet Government

Mr. HACKING

Will the hon. Member say what is the limit of credit given to traders of this country who wish to do business with Russia 1

Mr. SMITH

I am not aware that there is any limit. Every case is dealt with on its merits by the committee.

Commander OLIVER LOCKER-LAMPSON

Shall we do the same for our Dominions?