§ 9. Mr. Noel-Bakerasked the Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he can make a statement concerning the progress and result of the negotiations between the Japanese Government and the British, Dutch and American companies for the supply of oil to Japan?
§ Mr. ButlerI have at present no further information to add to the answer which I gave on 5th November to my hon. Friend the Member for Stourbridge (Mr. R. Morgan).
§ Mr. Noel-BakerDoes my right hon. Friend expect to have information in the near future?
§ Mr. ButlerI hope so.
§ Mr. ManderHas my right hon. Friend not seen the statement in the "Times" to-day that an agreement has been 1683 initialled between the Japanese representatives and the oil interests for the import of oil from the Dutch East Indies?
§ Mr. ButlerI saw that telegram reported. The latest information which I have ascertained is that the agreement is not actually signed. Naturally, when I have further information, I shall place it at the disposal of the House.
§ Mr. ShinwellIn the meantime, can the right hon. Gentleman say whether the Japanese are getting oil from this source?
§ Mr. ButlerIf the agreement is not yet finally concluded, I do not suppose they are getting the oil.
§ Mr. ShinwellThe right hon. Gentleman said he does not suppose they are getting the oil. Cannot he be more definite?
§ Mr. ButlerIf this agreement is not concluded, it will be difficult for them to get the oil. The Netherlands East Indies were a normal source of supply of oil to Japan, and I cannot say whether, under normal conditions, supplies of oil are now proceeding to Japan.
§ Sir Richard AclandAre the Government doing anything to prevent any company making an agreement with Japan, or are they waiting to see what the companies do with the intention of making a report upon it?
§ Mr. ButlerThere has been contact between His Majesty's Government and the United States Government on this matter, but the location of the companies and the territories concerned must be taken into account.