HC Deb 21 March 1940 vol 358 c2121
67. Mr. Mander

asked the Minister of Economic Warfare whether he is aware that the Rumanian petrol company, Foraky Roumaneasca, Limited, has been sold to a German group; and what steps were taken to prevent this and to bring it under British influence?

Mr. Cross

The purchase of Foraky Roumaneasca, Limited, was carefully considered by His Majesty's Government, but it was decided that the potential value of the property did not justify the purchase price which was being asked. In addition, the small production of which this company is capable would not increase materially the amount of Rumanian oil under German control and would still leave Germany substantially short of the amount which she is entitled to purchase under the German-Rumanian agreement.

Mr. Mander

Am I to understand that this was one of the occasions when the Treasure refused to grant the request of the Minister of Economic Warfare?

Mr. Cross

No, Sir. This is not a case in which I wished to approach the Treasury to make any grant.

Mr. Mander

Because you knew it was useless?