HC Deb 06 August 1940 vol 364 c11
17. Mr. Price

asked the Minister of Economic Warfare whether the control of merchandise to and from French Colonies by means of navicerts, as recently announced, applies also to the French mandated territory of Syria?

The Minister of Economic Warfare (Mr. Dalton)

The seaborne trade of Syria has now shrunk to such an extent that no special measures of control are considered necessary. I am, however, keeping a careful watch on the situation. The navicert system does not, in any case, apply to the French Colonies or mandated territories.

Mr. Price

Do I take it that my right hon. Friend is satisfied that no oil is likely to get out of Syria, overseas, to Italy?

Mr. Dalton

Yes, Sir, I am quite satisfied about that at present, but if I cease to be satisfied, I shall seek powers to deal with the matter.