§ 7. Mr. A. Hendersonasked the Prime Minister whether he has any statement to make with regard to the policy of His Majesty's Government in relation to securing an improvement of the economic position of the Danubian countries?
§ Mr. ButlerThe policy of His Majesty's Government is to maintain and, so far as possible, to develop the trade between the United Kingdom and the Danubian countries, and so to contribute to the 186 improvement of the economic situation of these countries. We recognise that, for geographical reasons, Germany and Italy afford a natural market for a large proportion of their production, but there is still ample scope for United Kingdom interests to play their part in the economic life of these countries. The precise measures by which our interests can best be maintained will depend on circumstances in each case, but His Majesty's Government will continue to watch the situation and to promote economic co-operation with the Danubian countries wherever possible.
§ Mr. HendersonIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the French Government have been giving consideration to this question; and have they made any report to His Majesty's Government on the matter?
§ Mr. ButlerI should require notice of that question.
§ Mr. RileyAre any negotiations whatever taking place between His Majesty's Government and these countries with regard to trade relations?
§ Mr. ButlerI said in my original reply that we are trying to promote economic relations with the Danubian countries wherever possible. Where it is possible we shall keep in touch with them.