HC Deb 28 March 1944 vol 398 c1239
37. Mr. Cocks

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Economic Warfare what progress has been made in the negotiations to pre-empt the supply of wolfram from Portugal and Spain.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Economic Warfare (Mr. Dingle Foot)

The negotiations in Lisbon and Madrid regarding exports of wolfram to the enemy are still in progress. Until these negotiations are concluded it is impossible to forecast the quantity of wolfram the United Nations will purchase in the Iberian Peninsula.

Mr. Cocks

In view of the fact that 90 per cent. of German requirements of wolfram come from these countries, could not the Minister say what is the cause of these interminable delays? Is it not time that we informed our ancient Ally that she is acting more like an enemy in this matter?

Mr. Foot

The Portuguese Government have been left in no doubt of our views on the subject.

Mr. G. Strauss

Do Spain and Portugal continue, at the moment, to supply Germany with 90 per cent. of her wolfram?

Mr. Foot

I do not think that it is possible in a word or two to give an answer which would not be misleading. Perhaps my hon. Friends will put their questions down.