HC Deb 27 March 1946 vol 421 cc362-3
40. Mr. Cuthbert

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will consider offering the Government of Siam credits or such other commercial advantages as will induce them to make available for export the largest possible amount of cereals, especially rice, with a view to relieving, by these means, the shortages in India and Burma.

Mr. Bevin

His Majesty's Government are fully aware of the importance of encouraging the maximum export of rice from Siam. We have been advised that the most effective means of obtaining increased exports is the early delivery to Siam of certain classes of consumer goods. Siam is in a position to pay for such goods, and His Majesty's Government have taken steps, in cooperation with the Dominion Governments and the Government of India, to ensure their early delivery to Siam.