asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department what amount of credit has been applied for and granted during the last six months under the export credits scheme; and what are the names of the first six principal countries to which goods have been exported under this scheme during the last six months, in order of importance, but without giving the amounts of the business done under the scheme for each country?

The credits for which application was made under the export credits scheme during the six months to 16th June, 1924, amounted to £1,631,801, and credits to the amount of £700,568 were granted. The bills actually guaranteed during this period (including renewals) amounted to £2,004,174. The six principal countries, or groups of countries, to which goods have bean exported under this scheme during the last six months, in order of importance, were Portugal and Portuguese Colonies, France, Poland, South Africa, South American Republics and Italy.

What rate of interest was charged?

I do not know that that is in the question, but if my hon. Friend will put it down I will try to oblige him with an answer.