HC Deb 16 April 1931 vol 251 c351
55. Mr. KIRKWOOD

asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department what applications have now been considered by the export credits committee from Clydeside shipbuilders for long-term credits to enable them to build ships to the order of the Russian trades delegation; and whether he will recommend the granting of all possible facilities in order to reduce unemployment on Clydeside?

Mr. GILLETT (Secretary, Overseas Trade Department)

There has been only one recent application in connection with Russia from Clydeside shipbuilders and that for a small amount. As I told my hon. Friend on 2nd April the questions raised by the deputation of shipbuilders which recently waited on my right hon. Friend, the President of the Board of Trade, are under consideration.

Mr. KIRKWOOD

When will the hon. Gentleman be in a position to give a reply, as there is a terrible amount of unemployment on the Clyde?

Mr. GILLETT

As the matter is in the hands of my right hon. Friend, I cannot answer at once, but I will draw his attention to my hon. Friend's question.

Mr. KIRKWOOD

If I put down a question, will the hon. Gentleman be in a position to give a reply in a week? There are 30,000 unemployed in the shipbuilding industry on the Clyde.

Mr. GILLETT

The hon. Member might put it to the President of the Board of Trade, who himself has the matter under consideration.

Miss LEE

Will the hon. Gentleman keep in mind, in making his decision, that Germany has decided to extend her export credits to Russia?

Mr. GILLETT

All these points will be before my right hon. Friend.