§ 5. Mr. Noel-Bakerasked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, whether he can make a statement concerning the progress of the negotiations for the sale of oil to the Government of Japan now being conducted by British, Dutch and American companies?
§ Mr. ButlerAccording to the information furnished to my noble Friend, progress has been made with the negotiations, but I am not in a position to make any further statement.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerAre we to understand that as things stand at present the Japanese are permitted to purchase crude oil and partially refined oil from American companies?
§ Mr. ButlerYes, Sir, the American embargo applies only to the higher octane spirit.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerWill the Government endeavour to ensure that British companies at least shall confine their sales to meeting the needs of this country and to those who are resisting aggression?
§ Mr. ButlerNaturally our own needs come first.
§ 6. Mr. Noel-Bakerasked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether His Majesty's Ambassador to Mexico has made any report concerning the action of the Mexican Government in cancelling oil concessions which had been granted to the Government of Japan and in laying an embargo on the export of petrol, mercury and other war requirements to Japan?
§ Mr. ButlerAccording to information received by my Noble Friend from His Majesty's Consul-General at Mexico, the Mexican Government do not propose to enforce the embargo on the export of certain materials to Japan.
§ Mr. ThorneDoes not the right hon. Member agree that the Government blundered in not making an arrangement with the Mexican Government months ago?
§ Mr. ButlerOh no, the Government were very wise.