HC Deb 03 May 1938 vol 335 cc675-6
31. Mr. Mander

asked the Prime Minister whether he will consider the advisability of entering into trade negotiations with the Government of Czechoslovakia on the lines of the recent American-Czech treaty for the purpose of offering to that country on a mutually-advantageous basis markets alternative to those recently closed by German action in Central Europe?

The Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Butler)

His Majesty's Government are at all times anxious to adopt any course which would increase the trade between the United Kingdom and foreign countries on a basis of mutual advantage, and I can assure the hon. Member that no possibility of this kind will be overlooked.

Mr. Mander

Was not this matter raised by the French Minister who came here last week, and cannot the hon. Gentleman say what action it is proposed to take as a result of the consultations which occurred last week?

Mr. Butler

I am not at present advised that there is any opening for materially increasing our trade with Czechoslovakia. If any possibility should arise, I will certainly consider it.

Mr. Mander

In view of the fact that one of the means of throttling Czechoslovakia is by economic strangulation by Germany, will not the Government give the matter their earnest consideration?

Mr. Butler

I said that we are considering it.

Mr. Noel-Baker

Will the Minister consider opening discussions with the Government of Czechoslovakia to this end?

Mr. Butler

I am afraid that that is a broader question.