§ 97. Mr. Swinglerasked the First Lord of the Admiralty if he will grant licences for the export of dredgers to the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics and China.
§ Mr. J. P. L. ThomasWhile it has now been found possible to approve the granting of licences for the building of certain trawlers for the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, the question whether orders for dredgers may be accepted remains under consideration, but I am hopeful that a decision will be reached before long. Her Majesty's Government would not be prepared to issue licences for the building of dredgers for Communist China so long as the United Nations Resolution of 18th May, 1951, is in force.
§ 98. Mr. Doddsasked the First Lord of the Admiralty what decision has been reached in considering the building of trawlers and fish factory ships for the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics.
§ Mr. J. P. L. ThomasI am pleased to inform the hon. Member that it has been decided that contracts for about 30 of these vessels offered by the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics can now be accepted.