§ 39. Mr. ALBERYasked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department, if he 592 will state for the period 1924 to 1930, inclusive, the aggregate value in pounds sterling of the excess of imports over exports between this country and Soviet Russia; and if he will give the corresponding figure as regards the United States of America and Soviet Russia?
§ Mr. SHINWELLDuring the period 1924 to 1930 the value of merchandise imported into the United Kingdom from Soviet Russia exceeded the value of total merchandise exports to Soviet Russia from this country by £95,877,044. The corresponding figure for trade between the United States and Soviet Russia shows an excess of exports from the United States of 390,088,000 dollars, or approximately £81,000,000. Imports into the United States are recorded according to their value in the country of export, while in this country the c.i..f. value of imports is taken.
§ Mr. ALBERYWill his Majesty's Government point out to the Soviet Government the desirability of doing something to bring these figures into more equitable form?
§ Mr. SHINWELLThat is an entirely different question.
§ Sir H. CROFTWill His Majesty's Government not increase the present credits until this balance is restored?
§ Mr. SHINWELLIf the hon. and gallant Member wishes information on that point, perhaps he will put down a question.