asked the President of the Board of Trade for what purpose an economic and financial mission has recently been sent to Spain.

The purpose of the discussions now taking place in Madrid between a delegation from the United Kingdom and the Spanish authorities is to review the Monetary Agreement of 28th March, 1947, as provided under Article 9, and to discuss the course of trade and payments between Spain and the United Kingdom during the forthcoming 12 months.

Would my right hon. Friend make it clear to the delegation that they are to explain to the representatives of the Franco Fascist Government that this country would view with alarm any extension of trade with that country, in accordance with the resolutions passed at the United Nations in March, 1946?