§ 2. Mrs. Renée Shortasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what were the total exports and imports, respectively, between Great Britain and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics for 1969–70; and what steps he is taking to increase the total level of trade with the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics during the next five years.
§ Mr. NobleIn 1969 our imports from the U.S.S.R. were £1962 million and our exports £95.5 million. In 1970 the comparable figures were £210.5 million and £102–4 million. Expansion of this trade is largely a matter for British industry, but full support is provided by the Department and by our embassy in Moscow.
§ Mrs. ShortI am obliged for that reply. Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the United States is now a strong competitor with ourselves, Japan and West Germany for Soviet trade, that recently the United States Secretary of Commerce was in Moscow and that large numbers of American businessmen have suddenly realised the great potential for increasing trade with the Soviet Union? Therefore, does he not feel it would be a good idea for his right hon. Friend to go to the Soviet Union to try to heal the breach created by his right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary, so that we can develop our trade with the Soviet Union during the next few years?
§ Mr. NobleSoviet authorities have often told us that their purchasing decisions are taken simply on commercial considerations, and I am certain that that is so. I know that, when the time is 911 proper, my right hon. Friend looks forward to visiting Moscow in order to increase our trade, which is what we all desire.