HC Deb 18 February 1947 vol 433 cc971-2
58. Mr. Boothby

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what steps he is taking to prevent countries within the sterling area from using their accumulated sterling balances in London for the current purchase of British goods.

Mr. Dalton

This question is being covered in our negotiations on sterling balances.

Colonel Crosthwaite-Eyre

Is the Chancellor aware that, during the last financial year £100 million of sterling balances held by Indians have been used to buy British assets in India?

Mr. Dalton

if the hon. and gallant Gentleman wishes to have the information checked, I shall be glad to do so.

Mr. Boothby

Can the Chancellor say to what extent the countries to which we owe money at the present time have been able to use their balances for the purchase of goods on current account during the last year?

Mr. Dalton

That is a statistical question. Perhaps the hon. Gentleman would put it down.