HC Deb 05 May 1930 vol 238 cc607-8
24. Mr. ARTHUR MICHAEL SAMUEL

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has, since 9th April, 1930, received any information as to the plans of the Mexican Minister of Finance with regard to the default of the Mexican Government's obligations to British holders of Mexican securities; and, if he has not, will he request His Majesty's representative in Mexico City to obtain from the Mexican Minister of Finance a definite statement as to the Mexican Government's intentions?

Mr. A. HENDERSON

No, Sir. His Majesty's Minister has repeatedly inquired of the Mexican Government their intentions in the matter, but has not yet been furnished with the information requested.

Mr. SAMUEL

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that £150,000,000 of British savings was lent to Mexico, and that that confidence has been utterly abused; and does he not think that, quite independently of any international arrangement, he should take some action to protect these people?

Mr. HENDERSON

I do not know what the hon. Gentleman desires me to do. I have already said in my answer that we have made repeated requests for information. Does the hon. Gentleman want me to send a gunboat?

Mr. SMITHERS

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that a new committee has been set up in the State of Delaware to protect the interests of Mexican bondholders, and would it not be possible for the British Government to get into touch with that committee?

Mr. HENDERSON

I did not know of the existence of such a committee. If the hon. Member will put down a question, I will try to get information.

Mr. SAMUEL

Is the right hon. Gentleman going to do nothing to save this £150,000,000 of British money?

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