§ 65. Mr. CARYasked the President of the Board of Trade whether steps will 1651 be taken to render compulsory, as from the date of revocation of the sanctions orders, payment to the Bank of England by United Kingdom importers in respect of their imports from Italy?
§ Mr. RUNCIMANYes, Sir. I would draw attention to the Treasury Order, entitled "The Clearing Office (Italy) Order, 1936," which is being laid before the House to-day. This Order renders payment in the manner suggested compulsory as from 15th July. Arrangements as to distribution to creditors in the United Kingdom are under discussion with the Italian Government, and I am not at present in a position to make any statement in regard to this aspect of the matter.