HC Deb 20 March 1939 vol 345 cc896-7
31. Mr. Bellenger

asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether any decision has yet been reached regarding the dispatch of a trade mission to Rumania?

The President of the Board of Trade (Mr. Oliver Stanley)

It has been decided to send a commercial mission to Rumania, but the detailed arrangements have not yet been made.

Mr. Bellenger

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that this matter has been under the consideration of his Department for some weeks; and does he think that, in view of the serious economic demands which have been made on Rumania by Germany, it is worth while sending a British trade mission now?

Mr. Stanley

It is one of the best arguments for sending it.

Mr. Lawson

Will it go at an early date?

Mr. Stanley

I have said that the detailed arrangements and the personnel are not yet concluded.

Mr. J. Morgan

Will the commission be empowered to negotiate on the output of the oilfields of Rumania on behalf of British interests?

Mr. Stanley

I cannot add anything to what I have said.