HC Deb 05 May 1932 vol 265 c1270
33. Mr. LAMBERT

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer when the next payment for interest on the American debt is due; and whether the sanction of Parliament will be requested before any further payment is made?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

The next payment for interest on the British War Debt to America falls due on 15th June next, but has been postponed under the Hoover Moratorium. The next payment thereafter falls due on 15th December next. The answer to the second part of the question is in the negative, but there will no doubt be an opportunity to discuss the policy of the Government in regard to War Debts and Reparations generally before the last-named date.

Mr. LAMBERT

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the question of enabling the House of Commons to have an opportunity of discussing this matter before any further payment is made to America?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

My answer was to the effect that there would be such an opportunity for discussion.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Do I understand from the right hon. Gentleman's answer that two payments have to be made in September next, or only one?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

Only one.