HC Deb 17 December 1908 vol 198 cc2127-8
MR. LONSDALE (Armagh, Mid)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware of a German loan to Portugal having been arranged on the security of Delagoa Bay and its port and railway; and, if so, what steps is it proposed to take, to safeguard British interests in the South African Hinterland served by Delagoa Bay.

THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS (Sir EDWARD GREY,) Northumberland, Berwick

There is no foundation whatever for the rumour that such a loan has been arranged.

MR. LONSDALE

inquired whether the right hon. Gentleman had seen the statement in the newspapers.

SIR EDWARD GREY

I took steps to ascertain whether there was any truth in it.