§ 35. Mr. Hammersleyasked the Minister of Economic Warfare whether, in respect of the recent agreement between Martinique and the United States of America, he has made arrangements with the United States of America to prevent the proceeds of the sale of French dollar assets being exported to France?
§ The Minister of Economic Warfare (Mr. Dalton)This agreement provides that limited amounts of French dollar assets held in the United States of America may be released for the purchase in the American continent of goods which are urgently needed for the domestic requirements of the French West Indian Islands, on condition that they are not re-exported. French assets in the United States have been subject to a freezing order by the United States Government since 17th June, 1940, and hon. Members will, I am sure, have read with great satisfaction the decision by the United States Government to apply a similar freezing order to all German and Italian assets in the United States.
§ Mr. HammersleyDo I take it from that reply that, while my right hon. Friend is aware of the possibility of leakage via France to Germany, he is satisfied that the new arrangement will cover all cases?
§ Mr. DaltonYes, Sir. I am quite satisfied that in this particular case the United States authorities will take great care of this matter. There are naval patrols in the neighbourhood of these islands, and I think there will be no leakage.