52. Captain BENNasked the Prime Minister whether he can now state the result of the representations made by the Government as to the position of British 2340 traders in the Rhineland; in particular, whether the suggestion of the British Chamber of Commerce in Cologne has been adopted; and whether he can give an assurance that effective action has been taken to relieve British traders from the difficulties and losses under which they are at present labouring?
§ The PRIME MINISTERHis Majesty's Government continue in constant communication with the French and Belgian Governments. While those Governments have not as yet accepted the suggestion of the Cologne Chamber of Commerce, I am confident that so far as the French and Belgian Governments are concerned, arrangements for dealing with the difficulties of British traders, as satisfactory as possible in what is admittedly an abnormal situation, are being made.
Captain BENNCan the right hon. Gentleman say what was the reply to the inquiry made by the Foreign Office last week in consequence of my question?
§ The PRIME MINISTERYes. We have been in constant communication with the French and Belgian Governments, and with our representative on the Rhine, and I am sure, from those communications, that everything possible is being done.
Captain BENNCan the right hon. Gentleman state a specific case in which the position of the British trader, who is doubly taxed and harassed, has been improved?
§ The PRIME MINISTERYes. In many cases where contracts have been entered into, they are taking all steps to make conditions as easy as possible.