HC Deb 10 April 1928 vol 162 cc1062-3
43. Sir G. HAMILTON

asked the Prime Minister whether he is yet able to make any statement as to the handing over of the British pavilion at the Rio de Janeiro Exhibition to the Government of Brazil?

Lieut.-Colonel BUCKLEY

I have now had an opportunity of discussing this matter with His Majesty's Ambassador at Rio. When the exhibition closes, the pavilion will be, reconditioned, and formally handed over to the Brazilian Government, and every effort will be made to make the ceremony worthy of the occasion.

Sir G. HAMILTON

May I ask who will undertake this ceremony, and does the hon. and gallant Gentleman realise that the British trading community, both in this country and in Brazil, attach very great importance to this ceremony, and do not think it would be suitable for the British Ambassador to hand over the building?

Sir J. NORTON-GRIFFITHS

Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that there is a very strong feeling in Rio among leading Brazilians that some person of importance should perform the ceremony?

Lieut.-Colonel BUCKLEY

I am as anxious as my hon. and gallant Friends to do everything possible to encourage trade with Brazil and to meet the wishes of the Brazilian Government, but I have

— By Bank of England By Public Departments.
Maximum. Minimum. Maximum. Minimum.
1920–21 … … … 107,000,000 Nil 220,772,000 142,691,000
1921–22 … … … 73,750,000 Nil 197,168,000 111,435,000
1922–23 … … … 26,250,000 Nil 214,628,500 148,199,500

The rates of interest have varied from 5 per cent. to 1 per cent.