§ Mr. A. T. DAVIESasked the President of the Board a Trade whether trading negotiations between British industrialists and the Soviet Government have taken place during the past six months; whether the Department keeps official records of any results proceeding from such negotiations; what are the names of British firms or combinations which have effected definite arrangements for trading with the Soviet Government; and whether the Department is now engaged in any negotiations or transactions for the encouragement of trade between Great Britain and the Soviet Government of Russia?
§ Viscount WOLMERThe answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. Any results of negotiations between British groups and the Russian authorities are recorded in the Department of Overseas Trade so far as they are known, but my hon. Friend will readily understand that the Department cannot disclose information communicated to it by individual firms. The Department of Overseas Trade always gives any assistance in its power to British firms engaged in such negotiations, both here and through the staff of the mission in Moscow.