§ 38. Sir Patrick Hannonasked the President of the Board of Trade whether any arrangements have been made for the continuity of trade between the Baltic States and Finland and this country; and whether British official trade representation in these countries will be maintained during the process of the war?
§ Mr. StanleyI can assure my hon. Friend that His Majesty's Government are anxious that trade between this country and the Baltic States and Finland should continue so far as the circumstances of war permit; and arrangements to this end are being made. British official trade representatives are still at their posts in these countries and it is the intention of His Majesty's Government to maintain them there.
§ Sir P. HannonMay I ask my right hon. Friend whether that reply would apply generally to the export trade?
§ Mr. StanleyYes, Sir.
§ Mr. ShinwellCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether, in relation to the export trade with these countries and to other countries, he is taking steps to see that the price level is not unduly raised?
§ Mr. StanleyThat, of course, is one of the most important aspects.
§ Mr. A. ReedIs my right hon. Friend aware that one of the greatest difficulties in trading with Finland and other Baltic countries is the excessive war risks insurance, and will he look into that matter again, as 20 guineas per cent, is the usual rate on the London market?
§ Mr. StanleyI will certainly consider war risk insurance, but I think my hon. Friend will realise that in the case of Finland and the Baltic States there are other practical difficulties in the way.