HC Deb 20 November 1945 vol 416 cc229-30
50. Sir W. Smithers

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer, if he will state the amount given by Canada to Britain during the war; and how much was by way of free gift.

Mr. Dalton

In addition to the gift of 1,000,000,000 Canadian dollars in 1942, the Canadian Government has given supplies and Mutual Aid to this country to an estimated value of 1,862,000,000 Canadian dollars up to the end of August, 1945.

Sir W. Smithers

Will H.M. Government send an official message of sincere thanks to the Canadian Government for what they have done for us during the war?

Mr. Dalton

We have constantly expressed our appreciation, and our very heartfelt appreciation, to the Canadian Government. I do not think that a special message sent at this particular moment would have any particular appropriateness. In fact, my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister has lately been in touch with the Prime Minister of Canada on this and other matters.