§ 44. Mr. REMERasked the President of the Board of Trade whether shortage of staff or pressure of other business has prevented his Department from carrying 558 to a conclusion discussions with the Spanish Government for the benefit of British export trade in accordance with the recommendations of the British Chamber of Commerce for Spain?
§ Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLEThe recommendations of the British Chamber of Commerce in Spain are being carefully considered in conjunction with other matters which affect the question of initiating commercial negotiations with the Spanish Government.
§ Mr. PIKEIs the adverse balance of trade in favour of Spain as against this country, amounting to £7,500,000 per annum, to continue while the negotiations are being carried through?
§ Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLEThe negotionations if entered upon will be for the purpose of improving the trade balance.