HC Deb 02 October 1941 vol 374 cc723-4
86. Mr. Wedgwood

asked the Minister of Economic Warfare whether the permits recently given by the United States Government to export oil to Spain were granted after consultation with, and with the approval of His Majesty's Government?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Economic Warfare (Mr. Dingle Foot)

No special consultation was required, as the United States authorities were aware that navicerts had been granted for these shipments. Navicerts are, of course, granted only within the limits of the agreement regulating imports of petroleum and petroleum products into Spain.

Mr. Wedgwood

Is it not the custom of the United States Government to consult our Government before granting such permits?

Mr. Foot

I do not think that regular consultation is necessary, since in any case the shipments would not be able to sail unless they were covered by navicerts.

Mr. Noel-Baker

Is the hon. Gentleman confident that the stocks of oil in Spain are not larger than those contemplated in our plans?

Mr. Foot

Yes, Sir.