HC Deb 16 March 1925 vol 181 cc1837-8
24. Sir FREDRIC WISE

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department if the amount of credit granted to Portugal under the Export Credits for £3,000,000 has been extended from 1927; and if the technical difficulties of repayment have been got over?

Mr. SAMUEL

The question of a possible extension of the Portuguese credit has been raised, but no decision has yet been taken. As regards the second part of the question, all sums due to the Export Credits Department have been paid punctually, but I am informed that there has been some delay over the: payments due to British exporters in connection with the same transactions. I understand, however, that these payments have now been duly discharged.

Sir F. WISE

Can the hon. Member state whether any further security will be given in regard to that £3,000,000 if the extension takes place?

Mr. SAMUEL

I cannot say that for the moment, because we have not yet considered the question of the extension at any length.

Sir F. WISE

It is very important that full security should be given.

Mr. SAMUEL

Most certainly. That point will be taken into consideration.