§ 23. Mr. Rankinasked the President of the Board of Trade to what extent the procedure under the Anglo-Spanish Payments Agreement is enabling trade with Spain to proceed under present conditions; and whether he is satisfied that British importers and exporters are properly protected against the present German efforts to dominate Spanish trade?
§ Captain Euan Wallace (Secretary, Overseas Trade Department)As regards the first part of the question, I am satisfied that the suspension of the clearing procedure under the Anglo-Spanish Payments Agreement, which was referred to in the reply given to my hon. Friend on 17th December last, has removed certain obstacles to Anglo-Spanish trade. There remain, however, other difficulties inherent in the present situation in Spain. As regards the second part, His Majesty's Government will take any appropriate action that is open to them to ensure that British traders are not placed at an undue disadvantage in relation to any foreign competitors in trading with Spain.
§ Mr. H. G. WilliamsIs my hon. and gallant Friend aware of the fact that goods consigned to importers in this country are being seized by representatives of the Spanish Government; is he taking any action in the matter?
§ Captain WallaceThat is a different question, and I ought to see it on the Paper.