§ 65. Sir Patrick Hannonasked the President of the Board of Trade to what extent reputable British firms are precluded from the issue of permits for export to Spain; and if, in the case submitted to him, in which a British firm has received an order for industrial trucks through a Spanish agency which may lead to considerable export of this article, permits will be issued.
§ Mr. DaltonExports to neutrals must depend upon what can be spared after our own requirements and those of the Empire and of our Allies have been met. Industrial trucks are in short supply and the whole output is urgently required for war purposes. I regret, therefore, that I cannot at present license their export to Spain.
§ Sir P. HannonMay I ask the President of the Board of Trade if this particular case, and several other cases I have discussed with him, are governed by Lend-Lease obligations, or by shortage here?
§ Mr. DaltonNo, Sir. My primary consideration in dealing with these matters is shortage of supplies; if that is established, no question of Lend-Lease need arise.