asked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department the number and value of the contracts in respect of exports to Russia which have been entered into under the exports credit scheme since the operation of the scheme was extended to Russia, and the approximate financial terms granted; and the general nature of the goods which have been the subject of these contracts?

The number of Russian contracts entered into up to and including the 7th instant is 22, and the total value £363,930. It has always been the practice not to disclose the terms and conditions on which guarantees are given. I regret, therefore, that I am unable to supply the hon. and gallant Member with details. In regard to the last part of the question, a general description of the goods is machinery, textiles, metals, coal and chemicals.

Could the hon. Gentleman give the House some idea as to the maximum time that the Committee are now giving for contracts of this kind?

Are any foodstuffs included in these contracts?

I do not think that the present figures indicate any considerable amount of food.