HC Deb 20 July 1937 vol 326 cc1937-8
3. Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether General Franco's verbal consent to the Oreonora Company continuing to mine and ship ore to England has been or will be committed to writing?

Mr. Stanley

If the hon. and gallant Member has in mind the informal assurances regarding the supply of iron ore referred to in an answer given to the hon. Member for South West Bethnal Green (Sir P. Harris) on 22nd June, the answer is in the negative.

Mr. J. J. Davidson

Does it matter whether assurances coming from that quarter are verbal or in writing?

Mr. Stanley

I am prepared to trust these assurances whether they are verbal or otherwise.

Mr. Wedgwood Benn

Has the right hon. Gentleman any information about a reported agreement between General Franco and the German Government for a monopoly of these iron ores?

Mr. Stanley

I have seen a report in this morning's newspapers, but I have no further information.

Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

Is this company able to carry on its business unimpeded?

Mr. Stanley

I should require notice of that question. As a matter of fact, quite recently there has been obstruction in the river, and I do not think that sea communications have been resumed.

Lieut.-Commander Fletcher

Have these obstructions come from the local authorities?

Mr. Stanley

It is not a question of obstruction by any authority. It is a case of physical obstruction in the river which makes navigation impossible.

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