§ 16. Sir EUGENE RAMSDENasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is now in a position to make a statement with regard to the Anglo-Brazilian debt agreement?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANIt has been necessary to discuss a number of points of detail with the Brazilian Government before steps could be taken to give effect to the agreement. The discussions have now reached a stage at which it is possible to inform creditors what particulars will be required from them. The issue of the requisite instructions and forms will take place in a few days and will be announced in the Press. Creditors who do not receive copies should apply to the Brazilian Claims Section, Cornwall House, Stamford Street, S.E.1. When the returns are complete it will be possible to decide what cash payments will be made out of the sum of £1,000,000 to be provided by the Brazilian Government for this purpose; arrangements will also be made for the issue of 4 per cent. sterling stock in respect of debts not paid in cash.
§ Mr. T. WILLIAMSMay I ask whether it is not necessary for Brazil to sell her oranges in order to pay her debts?
§ Mr. HANNONMay I ask whether during the present negotiations with Brazil he is keeping in view the interests of the Dominions at the same time?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANAs the answer includes a number of figures, I am circulating it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.
§ Following is the answer:
§ Mr. RUNCIMANYes, we are doing that. But when we have sold goods to Brazil we want payment.