HC Deb 20 December 1938 vol 342 cc2669-70
50. Sir Percy Harris

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how much of the £100,000,000, which the Prime Minister stated on 3rd October the Government were prepared immediately to advance to the Czechoslovakian Government for their urgent needs, has been actually transferred; and, if some of this sum is still outstanding, will he make arrangements that it shall be utilised to help refugees who are without homes as a result of the transfer of territory to Germany?

Sir J. Simon

I am informed that the whole of the £10,000,000 has been advanced.

Mr. Wedgwood Benn

Has the Chancellor of the Exchequer any information as to how the money has been disbursed in Czechoslovakia?

Sir J. Simon

I dare say that the right hon. Gentleman knows that we have appointed a liaison officer to go out there, and that he is in the closest touch with what is going on. I have seen some reports from him, and I have also seen him, because he has been over here. As soon as we produce our Bill I shall be able to make a statement about the matter, because I have some information, but I cannot very well give it in answer to a question.

Mr. Benn

Will the right hon. Gentleman be prepared to lay a paper showing how the money has been spent in Czechoslovakia?

Sir J. Simon

I should think that before the House is asked to pass the Bill it would certainly expect the information, and I am putting myself in a position to get that information.

Mr. Benn

Is it not a fact that for two months public money has been spent and no account has been rendered?

Sir P. Harris

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider further financial assistance in the next half year going direct to the refugees, who are the main sufferers from the geographical rearrangement of their countries?

Sir J. Simon

I think the hon. Baronet will appreciate the difficulties inherent in any scheme for direct assistance from the Government to the refugees.

Mr. Noel-Baker

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether any of this money has in fact been used for the refugees?

Sir J. Simon indicated assent

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