HC Deb 21 February 1921 vol 138 cc522-3
45. Mr. PERCY

asked the Prime Minister whether, in the efforts of the Government to establish credits in various European countries to promote the revival of international trade, the foreign governments and banks in the countries con- cerned have signified their willingness to take their share with the English Government in guaranteeing such credits; and, if so, to what extent generally?

Sir P. LLOYD-GREAME

I have been asked to reply. I am not aware of any foreign governments or banks having intimated their willingness to participate in the guaranteeing of credits.

Mr. PERCY

Will the hon. Gentleman make inquiries again?

Sir P. LLOYD-GREAME

I do not know what my hon. Friend means by making inquiries. If any such offer has been made I think it would have come direct.

Mr. KILEY

Will the hon. Gentleman consider the advisability of approaching any of these banks?

Mr. A. M. SAMUEL

What does he think the credit or indorsement of such institutions would be worth?

Sir P. LLOYD-GREAME

I am very much more anxious to see what can be done in this country to assist our own trade with our own resources, and I think that we had better confine our attention to that and try to get something done rattier than to go further afield with a roving commission.

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