HC Deb 12 December 1932 vol 273 cc11-2
15. Lieut.-Colonel CHARLES KERR

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs the amount, including the interest accrued, owing to subscribers in this country to loans made to States now federated in the United States of America?

Mr. EDEN

I would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the annual report of the Council of Foreign Bondholders, which gives such information as is available on the subjects of his inquiry.

Lieut.-Colonel KERR

Will this sum, whatever it is, be taken into consideration when the final settlement is made?

Sir ARTHUR MICHAEL SAMUEL

Will the hon. Member ask the American Government if they do not recognise some obligation of honour in this matter?

45. Mr. JOEL

asked the Prime Minister in what respects the terms offered by the United States of America to this country in respect of the payment of the American debt differ from those offered by America to France?

The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Chamberlain)

I understand that in the course of the next few days there is to be a Debate on the general question of War debts. In these circumstances my hon. Friend will no doubt agree to await the statement which will be made on behalf of His Majesty's Government during the Debate.

46. Mr. JOEL

asked the Prime Minister whether the Government will introduce special legislation for the purpose of permitting the withdrawal of gold from the Bank of England for the purpose of paying the American debt?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

No special legislation would be required to enable the payment to be made in the manlier referred to in the question.

Mr. GODFREY NICHOLSON

Would my right hon. Friend consider sending to the United States of America 120,000,000 copies of "The Story of Midas "