HC Deb 23 March 1938 vol 333 cc1185-6
7. Sir John Mellor

asked the Prime Minister whether he has made or will make representations to the Mexican Government with regard to the treatment of British interests in the Mexican oilfields?

14. Mr. Roland Robinson

asked the Prime Minister whether his attention has been called to the expropriation of British-controlled oilfields in Mexico; and what action it is proposed to take to protect British interests?

Mr. Butler

On 10th March His Majesty's Minister at Mexico City officially drew the attention of the Mexican Government to the profound anxiety of His Majesty's Government at the probable consequences to established British interests as a result of the verdict of the Mexican Supreme Court of 1st March. On 16th March Mr. O'Malley also had an interview with the Mexican President on the subject of this verdict. His Majesty's Government, who have informed the Mexican Government that they reserve their full rights in the matter, are now examining the situation resulting from the expropriation decree, which was made public on 19th March.

Mr. Robinson

Will the hon. Gentleman bear in mind the importance to this country of having an oil supply which does not have to pass through the Mediterranean?

Mr. Davidson

Has the attention of His Majesty's Government been drawn to the statement of the Mexican Government that this oil would be available for the democracies of the world?

Mr. Shinwell

When the hon. Gentleman is concerning himself with these British oil interests in Mexico will he concern himself also with the interests of the workers engaged in the oilfields?

Mr. Maxton

Would the Minister communicate with the Mexican Government and tell them that their law courts must not make decisions without first consulting His Majesty's Government?

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