HC Deb 21 August 1945 vol 413 c450
66. Sir W. Smithers

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will state in simple terms and by countries, Britain's external financial obligations; and where exact figures are not available, will he give an estimate.

Mr. Dalton

The total now exceeds £3,500,000,000, but I am not prepared at present to give details of its composition.

Sir W. Smithers

Will the right hon. Gentleman say why he cannot give details? Why keep it secret?

Mr. Dalton

I think it is better, for the moment, that we should not go into too much detail, though in due course I have no doubt that these matters will be revealed in debate.