HC Deb 16 November 1937 vol 329 cc215-6
52. Mr. De la Bère

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether the £40,000,000 lent to the French State railways by British banks last January had his approval; and what were the terms of repayments?

Sir J. Simon

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. The credit was to run for a maximum period of about 10 months, repayment to take place during the period 30th November to 24th December.

Mr. De la Bère

Do not the Government think that this £40,000,000 is wanted at home by agriculture for loans, and also for those who are unemployed?

Sir J. Simon

I am not quite sure that my hon. Friend appreciates that the

£40,000,000 is not Government money or public money. It is a loan advanced by certain banks.

Mr. De la Bère

It belongs to the British public.

Captain A. Evans

Has my right hon. Friend reason to believe that this loan is not going to be repaid according to the terms?

Sir J. Simon

Of course, it will be repaid.

Mr. Davidson

Will the right hon. Gentleman inform the hon. Member who asked the question that profits have no nationality?