HC Deb 19 December 1938 vol 342 c2462
49. Mr. Bellenger

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the desire of His Majesty's Government that an amicable agreement with Germany on the sharing of markets should be attained, any arrangements have been made to discuss this matter with the Governor of the Reichsbank during his visit to this country?

The President of the Board of Trade (Mr. Oliver Stanley)

I have been asked to reply. Dr. Schacht was not here as a representative of the German Government; but the opportunity provided by his visit was taken to tell him, for the information of the competent authorities in Berlin, that His Majesty's Government favour amicable agreements between industries in the two countries with regard to the sharing of markets, which will enable them both to carry on a fair trade at fair prices.

Mr. Bellenger

Was the information conveyed unofficially to Dr. Schacht, or did it take place in discussion between a Minister and Dr. Schacht?

Mr. Stanley

Even Ministers can be unofficial.

Mr. Bellenger

Will the right hon. Gentleman answer my question? Did it or, did it not take place by a discussion between a Minister and Dr. Schacht?

Mr. Stanley

What took place were discussions with a Minister, but, as I pointed out, Dr. Schacht himself was not in an official capacity as representing the German Government.

Mr. Shinwell

If Dr. Schacht is not representing the German Government whom is he representing?

Mr. Stanley

He is President of the Reichsbank.

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