HC Deb 03 November 1937 vol 328 c904
9. Sir Nicholas Grattan-Doyle

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will notify the Argentine Government that the treatment of the British capital in the Anglo-Argentine railroads is regarded with dissatisfaction by British investors; and that, if the Argentine Government desires a renewal of the Trade Agreement when it comes up for review 18 months hence, the treatment of the railroads will form part of the negotiations about Argentine meat and foodstuffs?

Viscount Cranborne

As stated by my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer in reply to a question by my hon. Friend on 29th July last, the general position of investors in Argentine railway securities has shown a welcome improvement, but the position in respect of certain of these securities still remains unsatisfactory to the holders. All questions relating to the renewal of the present Trade Agreement with the Argentine will, of course, fall for consideration in the light of circumstances when the time comes.

Mr. T. Williams

Does the Minister regard it as an important part of the function of those who negotiate trade agreements to act as debt collectors for the bondholders?