BRITISH TRADE WITH RUSSIA

Press, Volume LXX, Issue 21085, 9 February 1934, Page 9

BRITISH TRADE WITH RUSSIA

* AGREEMENT NOW BEING DRAFTED (BRITISH OFHCIAI WISILSSS.) RUGBY, February 7. The drafting' of the trade agreement between Great Britain and Russia is now proceeding, and it is expected that the signing of the agreement will take place in London shortly. Sir John Simon (Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs) stated in the House of Commons this afternoon that the conclusion of the agreement is now being delayed by the question of food supplies to the British Embassy at Moscow. He added: "Inasmtich as the Soviet Government seeks to secure in its trade agreements with other countries diplomatic privileges for its trade representatives, and as certain restrictions have been imposed on the purchase and importation of supplies by liis Majesty's representatives in the Soviet Union, the British Government has requested the Soviet Government to give an assurance that the necessary supI plies will continue to be available at reasonable prices, and that such supplies as they found it necessary to import will not be subject to import duties. "As the Soviet Government has declined to give this assurance, and, as it is essential for the continuance of satisfactory relations that proper treatment should be accorded to his Majesty's representatives, the Government has made its position clear to the Soviet Government in a formal note."