HC Deb 14 March 1939 vol 345 cc205-6
62. Mr. Bellenger

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he can give any estimate of the amount of trade debts owing to Great Britain by Spain; and what arrangements are being made for their liquidation?

Mr. Stanley

The amount of trade debts due to United Kingdom creditors from Spain in respect of which peseta deposits have been made with the Banco Exterior de Espana for ultimate transfer under the provisions of the Anglo-Spanish Payments Agreement is approximately £4,500,000. In addition, particulars have been furnished to my Department of other outstanding trade debts amounting to about £500,000. It is the intention of His Majesty's Government to endeavour to

Mr. Stanley

I will, with the hon. Member's permission, circulate this information in the Official Report.

Mr. Day

Are the figures increasing, and does that not prove that these Acts are making it more difficult for the trade to continue?

Mr. Stanley

I think they are decreasing, so the second part of the Supplementary does not arise.

Following is the information:

negotiate a comprehensive arrangement regarding outstanding debts as soon as circumstances permit.