§ 50. Mr. SMITHERSasked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department to what extent Russia is using her British credits to buy goods in foreign countries; and will he consider what steps can be taken to ensure that British credits to Russia shall be spent in this country?
§ Major C0LVILLE (Secretary, Overseas Trade Department)In reply to the first part I can only speak with knowledge of the British credits which Russia obtains through the operations of the Export Credits Guarantee Scheme. These credits are granted only for goods manufactured or produced in the United Kingdom. The suggestion in the second part of the question has been noted.
§ Mr. SMITHERSCan my hon. and gallant Friend say whether there is any possibility of immediate action being taken in this matter?
§ Major COLVILLEThe facts regarding the trade position between this country and Russia are known, and, with other relative matters, are under consideration.
§ Sir W. DAVISONHave the Overseas Trade Department noted the speech which M. Kerensky made the day before yesterday?