HC Deb 30 May 1933 vol 278 cc1692-3
9. Mr. DREWE

asked the President of the Board of Trade what quantities of butter, condensed milk, eggs and poultry have been inported from Russia Since the embargo has been in force; and whether, in view of the present glut of supplies, he will give an undertaking not to grant further licences?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

Condensed milk and eggs are not among the classes of goods covered by the prohibition, and the information desired is not at present available. 29,286 cwts. of butter, and poultry, to the value of approximately £11,000, have been imported from the Soviet Union under licence Since the prohibition took effect. These licences have been granted because substantial payment had been made for the goods concerned before the proclamation was issued. I cannot give the undertaking asked for, and I would remind my hon. Friend that the prohibition was imposed solely to secure the lives and liberties of certain British subjects.

Sir JOSEPH LAMB

Is there any period during which the condition as to substantial payment applies?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

We do not name any special period, but we examine every case critically.

Lieut.-Colonel ACLAND-TROYTE

May I ask why the embargo is not made effective; and will the right hon. Gentleman consider adding eggs and condensed milk to the embargo?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

It would be a great pity for us to take steps which would punish our own fellow-subjects. Really, the prohibition is a penal act taken against another Power.

Mr. DREWE

May I ask why agriculture should be treated in an exceptional way as compared with any other industry, in view of the fact that our markets are so depressed?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

My hon. Friend need not have that misapprehension. I assure him that we treat every industry alike. No special exception is made in the case of agriculture.

Mr. DAVID GRENFELL

In view of the great inconvenience that is being caused to business people in this country, and the great loss of trade in general, will not the right hon. Gentleman consider lifting the embargo?

Mr. RUNCIMAN

Not until the conditions have been complied with.