HC Deb 17 February 1930 vol 235 cc904-5
26. Mr. WARDLAW-MILNE

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether any proposals have been made towards the repayment of the loans for industrial purposes incurred by certain Southern States, now forming part of the United States of America, before the civil war, and the repayment of which was repudiated: and what is the amount of principal, with interest to date, due to bondholders in this country in respect of such debts?

Mr. A. HENDERSON

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. As regards the second part I would refer the hon. Member to the Council of Foreign Bondholders, who are in possession of such information as is available on this subject.

Colonel HOWARD-BURY

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Council of Foreign Bondholders have often made representations to the right hon. Gentleman and previous Foreign Secretaries, and, seeing that these States have definitely repudiated their debts, and that the United States have the responsibility, can be not made representations on the matter?

Mr. HENDERSON

That being so, hon. Members opposite must not complain of continuity of policy.

Colonel HOWARD-BURY

Let us have it on Russia.