asked the President of the Board of Trade whether any steps are in contemplation for the renewal of the negotiations with the Government of the Russian Republic begun at Genoa this year and continued at the Hague; and what is the present state of these negotiations?

A full statement was made in the House on the 26th July on the Hague Conference. I cannot add anything to that statement at present.

Will the right hon. Gentleman kindly give me an answer to the last part of my question, namely, what is the present state of these negotiations? Has anything been done since July last?

No, Sir. The state of the negotiations was, as the lion, and gallant Member will recollect, that the Russians were to make certain statements and take certain steps. As far as I know they have not done so.

Are we simply Sitting down on it now, or are we, through the usual channels, finding out whether there is any chance of renewing the negotiations?

Our position is perfectly clear. I should be only too glad to know that the Russians had taken the course indicated.

Has any statement or report been received at the Foreign Office here from the British Mission in Russia with regard to the negotistions?

I must have notice of that question.