52. Miss Rathboneasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will give an assurance that the Government will not give, or encourage business houses to give, any loans or credits to the Government of Spain without the consent of Parliament?
§ Sir J. SimonSo far as I am aware, it is not the case that the Spanish Government have expressed any desire to borrow from this country and the hon. Member's question does not, therefore, arise.
Miss RathboneMay we understand then that there is no intention, proposal or plan under discussion at present, and that there will not be without the consent of Parliament?
§ Sir J. SimonI am not aware of any proposal or discussion of that sort, and of course, the hon. Member will remember that it would be impossible for us to lend money without statutory authority.
§ Mr. GallacherWill the right hon. Gentleman take into account the fact that this Government is not likely to last long?