HC Deb 17 February 1931 vol 248 cc1058-9
49. Mr. MANDER

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what negotiations are now taking place with the Australian Government regarding the Australian War Debt, and the present position?

61. Mr. MATTERS

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what proposals have reached him from the Commonwealth Government of Australia relative to negotiations for the revision of terms and conditions affecting the Australian War Debt to Great Britain?

Mr. P. SNOWDEN

No communication on the subject has reached me.

Mr. MANDER

Will the right hon. Gentleman point out to the Australian Government, if the question arises, that we are in no position in this country to make any concession?

Sir N. GRATTAN-DOYLE

Will the right hon. Gentleman remember that all these questions are most mischievous?

65. Mr. WISE

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will state for the financial year 1931–32 what are expected to be the receipts of Australia on account of reparations; and what will be the payments in respect of Australia's War Debt to the United Kingdom?

Mr. SNOWDEN

Australia should receive £826,000 on account of reparation in the financial year 1931–32: the sum due in respect of Australia's War Debt to the United Kingdom during the same financial year is £5,548,809.

Mr. WISE

In view of the fact that every pound that Australia pays of the War Debt is one pound less for purchases in this country, would it not be worth while to reconsider the basis of these payments bearing in mind the state of unemployment in this country?

Mr. SPEAKER

All these matters are debatable.