asked the President of the Board of Trade why the Government have diverted to Russia rails purchased for export to other destinations.

Rails were an important factor in last year's trade negotiations with Russia, as a result of which we are now receiving valuable supplies of coarse grain. On this account there was a temporary suspension of releases of surplus rails by His Majesty's Government last summer while negotiations were proceeding between the two Governments, but releases against a number of export orders were later permitted, and I am not aware that any rails actually purchased for export to other destinations were diverted to Russia.

Will the hon. Gentleman be prepared to consider evidence which will prove the contrary?

Most certainly.

Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that the hon. Member for Sutton Coldfield (Sir J. Mellor) is anxious that new regulations should be introduced so that he can pray against them?