§ 82. Mr. Mikardoasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he has taken note of the discussions in which the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics is now engaged with both West Germany and Japan with a view to agreements on trade; and whether, bearing in mind the advantages which such agreements would confer upon two of our main competitors, he will initiate discussions with the appropriate Soviet authorities in order to obtain assured supplies of essential commodities from this non-dollar source.
§ Mr. Walker-SmithI am aware that discussions on trade relations have taken place from time to time between the U.S.S.R. and West Germany; but I have146W no knowledge of negotiations directed towards a trade agreement between the U.S.S.R. and Japan other than a reference to trade discussions in the communiqué issued after the recent political talks between the Soviet and Japanese Governments. Imports into this country from the Soviet Union are satisfactory for our needs, and I see no reason to initiate discussions of the kind the hon. Member suggests.