HC Deb 05 May 1953 vol 515 cc207-8
56. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what negotiations are now being conducted for increasing the sale of herring to the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics.

63. Mr. Boothby

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will now make an announcement regarding the negotiations for the sale of cured herring to the Soviet Government.

Mr. J. Stuart

Negotiations are still in progress for the sale of cured herring to the U.S.S.R. and a British delegation is now in Moscow.

Mr. Hughes

Has this delegation full powers to conclude an agreement which will even increase the export of herring from Scotland?

Mr. Stuart

The delegation certainly has full powers to effect the best deal it possibly can.

Mr. M. MacMillan

While wishing every success to these negotiations, might I ask the right hon. Gentleman what commodities are being sought in exchange for the herring that are being sent from this country to Soviet Russia?

Mr. Stuart

I should not like to commit myself to a definite statement on that subject. I think it is much better that they should have a free hand to negotiate.

Mr. MacMillan

Could we have an assurance that it will not all be canned crab at 3s. 9d. for a 3 oz. tin and tinned salmon?

Mr. Stuart

I would rather not restrict the negotiations.