§ Sir Frederic Bennettasked the Secretary of State for Defence what has been the result of the Helsinki Agreement on Anglo-Soviet trade; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. DeakinsI have been asked to reply.
The Co-operation Agreement of 6th May 1974 and the long-term programme signed by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister in Moscow last February provide a framework for economic and industrial co-operation with the Soviet Union. Our exports to the Soviet Union rose from £110 million in 1974 to £211 million in 1975, and there are good prospects for the longer-term expansion of our trade. Full implementation of the Final Act of the Conference on Security and Co-operation in Europe would help create a more favourable general climate for Anglo-Soviet trade and better conditions for our business men seeking to trade in the Soviet Union.