HC Deb 13 June 1939 vol 348 cc1107-8
60. Mr. Bellenger

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that the negotiations now being conducted for a loan to Spain are being organised by an international undertaking operating from Brussels having British directors on its board, and a London office; and whether the consent of His Majesty's Government is necessary before British funds can be utilised in this way?,

Sir J. Simon

I am not in possession of any information which would confirm the facts, as stated in the first part of the question, but I shall be glad to consider any detailed statement which the hon Member may care to send to me. The reply to the second part of the question is in the affirmative.

Mr, Bellenger

Is not the right hon, Gentleman aware that statements are being made in certain City circles that this international loan is being organised by a company in Brussels, on the board of which there are British directors?

Sir J. Simon

I was not aware of that Perhaps the hon. Gentleman will look at the answer given to the hon. Member for North Lambeth (Mr. G. R. Strauss) on 18th May, where he will see that no British financial institution is associated with it.

Mr. Petherick

Will my right hon. Friend assure the House that he will not stand in the way of a resumption of normal friendly relations, political, economic and trade, with Spain?