HC Deb 21 June 1926 vol 197 c10
19. Sir FREDRIC WISE

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether the British Government is interested in any way in the £500,000 paid by Iraq to Turkey for the royalties from the Turkish Petroleum Company?

Mr. AMERY

So far as His Majesty's Government are aware, no decision has been reached by the Turkish Government to exercise their option under the recent exchange of Notes to capitalise their share of the Iraq Government's oil royalties for a sum of £500,000. Should the Turkish Government decide to adopt this course, no charge will fall upon the Imperial Exchequer.

Sir F. WISE

Will the right hon. Gentleman be consulted if such an option be exercised?

Mr. AMERY

I imagine the Iraq Government would consult us upon that matter.

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

If there is no money coming from the Treasury, where will the money come from, in view of the fact that this question arises in connection with the administrative cost of Iraq?

Mr. AMERY

I have no doubt ways and means will be found of raising the money?