50. Captain Duncanasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer to what extent he intends as a result of his recent agreement with the French Finance Minister to dispossess those British subjects who hold French assets in France; and at what rate of exchange will he give them sterling in exchange.
§ Sir J. AndersonNo decision has yet been taken on the question whether holders in this country of French francs will be required to sell them to the Treasury. The recent Agreement for the exchange of information to which my hon. and gallant Friend refers, does not affect this question one way or the other.
§ 58. Sir John Mellorasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will exclude from the information which he proposes 1233 to disclose to the French Government, any particulars of assets of British subjects wherever resident.
§ Sir J. AndersonThe Agreement in question does not cover information relating to the assets of British subjects, and in carrying it out no obligation will be admitted to disclose such information. British subjects in France who have money or property in the United Kingdom falling within the provisions of the Trading with the Enemy legislation, will be able to obtain its release on application. But my hon. Friend will realise that the nationality of a particular individual is not necessarily known unless he himself puts it forward.
§ Sir J. MellorDoes that assurance cover the case of British subjects of dual nationality?
§ Sir J. AndersonPerhaps my hon. Friend will give me time to consider that supplementary question.
§ Mr. J. J. LawsonWhat is all this about anyhow? Cannot somebody "come clean" over this matter?