54. Mr. MALONEasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether the Rumanian Government has recently raised or is at present negotiating the raising of a loan in London on the security of the unexploited petrol lands owned by that nation; whether His Majesty's Government have given any facilities for the raising of this loan; what is the amount of the loan; and whether he will give the names of the group who are providing the loan?
Mr. YOUNGI am not aware of what negotiations the Rumanian Government may be conducting, but no such loan has in fact been raised. As my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer has frequently explained, the London market is open to borrowers and the consent of His Majesty's Government is neither asked by borrowers nor required.