§ 53. Mr. LOUIS SMITHasked the Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether he is aware that the reshipment of the consignment of British industrial machinery is being held up by the Chilean Exchange Control Commission on the ground that it would represent a flight of capital; and what steps are being taken to protect the interests of the British firms concerned?
§ Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLEThe re-export from Chile of goods which have been cleared from the Customs is authorised only when security is given that the value of such goods will be remitted to Chile. Conversations on difficulties thus arising have taken place between His Majesty's Embassy and the Chilean Government, and these are continuing. If my hon. Friend will let me have particulars of the case he has in mind, I shall be glad to look into the matter.
§ Mr. SMITHCan the hon. and gallant Gentleman take any steps to prevent traders from being subjected to similar hardships in future?
§ Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLEConversations are now proceeding on this very question.