§ 49. Mr. N. MACLEANasked the Prime Minister whether the Government are taking any part in the negotiations at present proceeding for a loan to the Chinese Government; whether he can give the House any information about the negotiations and, in particular, whether the Chinese Government have been asked to make political or other concessions as one of the conditions of the loan; what banking companies are involved in the transaction; and whether it is proposed that British and American banks may participate in the loan on equal terms with Japanese banks?
Mr. HARMSWORTHIt is not clear to what negotiations the hon. Member alludes. His Majesty's Government are not aware that any negotiations for a specific loan to the Chinese Government 1647 are at present on foot, though arrangements are being concluded between international financial groups for the reconstitution of the Consortium in which British, American, French and Japanese banks will participate, and to provide funds for the future needs of China in the sphere of economic development.