§ 17. Mr. Peter Smithersasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of the existing exchange difficulties, he will take steps to negotiate a trade and payments agreement with the Mexican Government.
§ Mr. YoungerViews are being exchanged with the Mexican Government about the possibility of expanding trade between the two countries. I am not yet in a position to disclose any detailed information.
§ Mr. SmithersIs it not a fact that these negotiations have been going on for at least 18 months, and that we drew back from them at one time because we were afraid of offending the United States? Does not the hon. Gentleman think that in the present circumstances this is a suitable moment to press the negotiations and bring them to a conclusion?
§ Mr. YoungerIt is a fact that there were negotiations which had to be broken off. As I have said, we are in discussion about this at present. If the hon. Gentleman will put down a Question a little later I might then be in a position to say something.