HC Deb 05 August 1941 vol 373 cc1791-2
65. Mr. Mander

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will give an assurance that the economic sanctions put into operation in the Far East will so function that oil and other war supplies will in practice, as well as in theory, cease to be available to Japan in respect of the territories of Great Britain, the United States of America and the Netherlands?

The Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Richard Law)

Consultations with the other Governments concerned regarding the application of the far-reaching financial measures of control which have been introduced are still in progress, and I cannot add anything to the statement which my right hon. Friend made last week. There is no doubt, however, that the operation of these measures is already practical, not theoretical, and that their effect on supplies for Japan will be serious.

Mr. Mander

Will the Minister bear in mind that the oil from which this spirit is made should not be permitted to be sent to Japan, as has happened in the past? Otherwise, there is nothing in it.

Mr. Law

That point will be borne in mind.

Mr. Noel-Baker

Will steps be taken to press upon the United States Government that there is more hope of preventing war in the Far East between Japan and ourselves and America if oil supplies are stopped now?

Mr. Law

I am sure that the United States Government, like His Majesty's Government, are fully aware of the situation.