HC Deb 12 March 1946 vol 420 cc946-7
53. Mr. Stokes

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will consider the granting of a trade credit to Italy at an early date, so permitting resumption of, trade between Italy and this country, especially in view of the fact that the U.S.A. has already granted credits to Italy for trade purposes.

Mr. Dalton

Trade relations have already been resumed, but I am not prepared to grant a credit.

Mr. Stokes

Is it not a fact that the American Government have already granted a credit of 500,000,000 dollars, and in view of the fact that it is essential that industry should be got going in the North of Italy again, will my right hon. Friend reconsider his decision and make an announcement at an early date?

Mr. Dalton

No, Sir, I cannot reconsider the decision. The Americans are better able to grant credits than we are.

Mr. Stokes

But is it not a fact that the Americans have granted the credit?

Mr. Dalton

That is another question.

Mr. Stokes

I am asking the right hon. Gentleman.

Mr. Dalton

The hon. Gentleman must put it down.

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