§ 7. Commander SOUTHBYasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will press upon the French Government the claims of those British subjects who subscribed to the four French War Loans issued between 1915 and 1918 to have their loans repaid in full, observing that these British bondholders came to the assistance of France at a critical time and would now appear to be penalised for so doing?
§ The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Philip Snowden)At the moment I can only say that I will take any opportunity which presents itself of placing before the French Government the claim of the British bondholders for consideration.
§ Mr. SMITHERSWill the right hon. Gentleman take the initiative?
§ Mr. SNOWDENI can add nothing, as I have said, to the reply already given.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYMay I ask whether this hardship to British nationals did not arise before the right hon. Gentleman took office, and what was done by his predecessor?
§ Sir W. DAVISONWill the right hon. Gentleman also point out that British nationals were urged to subscribe to these bonds by the British Government at the time?
§ Mr. SNOWDENI am well aware of the facts stated.