HC Deb 05 March 1940 vol 358 cc187-8
31. Mr. Mander

asked the Minister of Economic Warfare whether he received information in January or February about the impending deal securing for Germany control over the Rumanian oil company Petrolul Romanesc; and whether he took any steps to prevent the deal while it was still possible to do so?

The Minister of Economic Warfare (Mr. Cross)

At the end of January, His Majesty's Government received a report that German agents were attempting to secure control over this Rumanian company. I understand, however, that arrangements have been made by which the company remains under Rumanian control.

Mr. Mander

Is the Minister entirely satisfied that the Germans have not succeeded in obtaining control of this important petrol corporation?

Mr. Cross

I do not think this is at all an important petrol corporation, but I am entirely satisfied that it is not under German control.