HC Deb 29 January 1934 vol 285 cc39-40
Sir WILLIAM DAVISON

(by Private Notice) asked the President of the Board of Trade what proposals have been made by the Russian Soviet Government in the course of the negotiations relating to a new trade agreement between this country and Russia with regard to the demand of the British Government for the arbitral award of £13,000,000 in favour of Lena Goldfields, Limited?

Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLE

An intimation has been received from the Soviet Government that if the company were to inform the Concessions Committee that they had not been able to accept the former offer made to them but were ready to resume negotiations, the committee would respond favourably. It was added that the mere fact of a resumption of negotiations would indicate a mutual amendment of terms. His Majesty's Government have accordingly advised the company to send the Concessions Committee a letter proposing to send representatives to Moscow to discuss the claim on the understanding that the terms would be materially amended on both sides. The company have decided to adopt this course.

Sir W. DAVISON

Was not this proposal forced upon the company by the British Government, and is my hon. and gallant Friend aware that it would place the company in a very embarrassing position owing to the fact that they have been asked to reduce, not the award, but the minimum sum they said they would accept in full settlement some time ago?

Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLE

I cannot add to the statement I have made except that I trust that negotiations will come to a satisfactory issue.

Sir W. DAVISON

Will there be some time limit to the negotiations? Is my hon. and gallant Friend aware that, when similar negotiations took place in Berlin last year, they went on for three months and nothing came of them?

Major Sir ARCHIBALD SINCLAIR

Are we to understand that the negotiations for an Anglo-Russian Trade Treaty are to be held up because of these negotiations in the affairs of a private company?

Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLE

Perhaps the right hon. Baronet will read the statement I have made, to which I have nothing to add.