§ 29. Mr. Thurtleasked the Prime Minister whether it is the desire of the Government, in view of its declared intention to ignore ideological differences in relation to foreign affairs, to strengthen and consolidate the existing relations with Soviet Russia; and whether he is contemplating any special steps to achieve this desire?
§ The Prime MinisterIt is the general desire of His Majesty's Government to 17 improve and consolidate their relations with other Governments. In this connection they are giving special attention to the possibilities of trading relations, and I am happy to announce that my right hon. Friend the Secretary to the Department of Overseas Trade will pay a visit to Moscow, among other Northern capitals, during the latter half of next month.
§ Mr. ThurtleDoes not the Prime Minister think that now would be a very opportune time to make some special friendly gesture to Soviet Russia?
§ The Prime MinisterI do not know that this is a more opportune time than any other.
§ Mr. GallacherNo.
§ Mr. A. HendersonDoes the Parliamentary Secretary to the Department of Overseas Trade propose to visit any other capitals besides Berlin and Moscow?
§ The Prime MinisterYes, I said so.
§ Mr. HendersonWhich capitals?