asked the President of the Board of Trade whether the Supreme Economic Council had instituted a blockade of Russia?

Mr. HARMSWORTH:

While no blockade of Russia in the technical sense of the word has been instituted, the Allied and Associated Governments have transmitted a Note to the Neutral Governments inviting them to co-operate in preventing communication between their nationals and the parts of Russia controlled by the Soviet Government: a Note has also been transmitted to the German Government through the Inter-Allied Armistice Commission requesting them to take similar action. Trade with South Russian ports is now proceeding as freely as difficulties of transport and finance permit. His Majesty's Government are doing everything possible to encourage trade with South Russia.

Mr. ROGGE:

Can the hon. Gentleman say on whose authority we are refusing to deal with the Soviet Government?

Mr. HARMSWORTH:

It is part of the policy of the Allies in Paris.

What replies have been received from the Neutral Governments and from the German Government to our Notes?

Mr. HARMSWORTH:

The hon. and gallant Gentleman must put that question on the Paper.