HC Deb 19 December 1933 vol 284 cc1099-100
34. Mr. ANSTRUTHER-GRAY

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will be in a position to make a statement of the progress made in the negotiations for a trade agreement with Russia before the House rises?

37. Mr. BOOTH BY

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can give any further information regarding the negotiations for a trade agreement between Great Britain and the Union of Socialist Soviet Republics?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

The negotiations for a new trade agreement with the Soviet Government are still proceeding. I am not in a position to make any further statement at the present moment.

Mr. ANSTRUTHER-GRAY

Can the right hon. Gentleman give us an assurance that, agreement or no agreement, the present unfavourable balance of trade between this country and Russia will not be allowed to continue indefinitely?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

One of the objects of an agreement is to bring the totals on the two sides nearer to each other.

Mr. MACLEAN

Can the right hon. Gentleman give the House a definite statement before the Adjournment on Thursday as to what progress is being made in this matter?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

No. Sir.

Mr. BOOTHBY

I wish to give notice that I shall raise this matter on the Motion for the Adjournment of the House on Thursday.