§ 24. Mr. MARJORIBANKSasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, having regard to the tact that in the Russo-Italian trade agreement export credits to Russia depend upon purchases by the Soviet Government of Italian goods, he is prepared to negotiate with the Soviet Government for an alteration of our trade agreement with Soviet Russia on the same principle?
§ Mr. GILLETTI am not sure what is the exact proposal for an amendment of the temporary commercial agreement of 16th April, 1930, which the hon. Member has in mind, but I could not undertake to give any promise as to entering into negotiations for any fresh agreement.
§ Mr. MARJORIBANKSWill the hon. Gentleman at least inform himself as to the principle upon which the Italians have entered into this very profitable engagement with the Soviet Government?
§ Mr. GILLETTI have not received the information yet.
§ 68. Mr. R. A. TAYLORasked the President of the Board of Trade if he has any information about the trade agreement recently concluded between Italy and Russia?
§ Mr. GILLETTI understand that the agreement between Italy and Russia concluded in August last, has now been replaced by a new Agreement which contemplates purchases in Italy by the 15 Soviet Government to a total of 350 million lire, and provides for credit facilities by the Italian Government in respect of such purchases. It is expected that the text of this agreement will be made public in due course.