45. Mr. Gibsonasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that a sum of £5,042 19s. 9d. which is due to the legal representative of the late Mr. William Dick, Greenock, and for which a cheque was issued by the Anglo-Spanish Clearing Office on 9th July, 1936, has not yet been paid; and whether he has any statement to make on the matter?
§ The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Lieut.-Colonel Colville)I would refer the hon. and learned Member to the reply which I gave him on 26th January last, to which I cannot at present add anything.
Mr. GibsonDoes the right hon. and gallant Gentleman realise that the withholding of this money is a serious disadvantage to the individual concerned, and to the Newfoundland interests that are involved, while at the same time the withholding of the money confers no benefit on the Clearing House?
§ Lieut.-Colonel ColvilleI am aware of the circumstances of the case, but the hon. and learned Member will recollect that no further payments can be made until a further order is made.
Mr. GibsonCan the right hon. and gallant Gentleman give any indication as to when that further order may be forthcoming?
§ Lieut.-Colonel ColvilleIf the hon. and learned Gentleman can give an indication when Spain will be in a more settled condition.