HC Deb 11 March 1947 vol 434 c1134
61. Colonel Crosthwaite-Eyre

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what representations have been made by His Majesty's Government to Brazil over that country's refusal to accept further sterling for payment of trade transactions.

Mr. Dalton

The Brazilian Government have been informed that the decision of the Bank of Brazil to cease buying sterling is regarded by His Majesty's Government as a contravention of existing arrangements, and have been pressed to resume such purchases.

Colonel Crosthwaite-Eyre

Can the right hon. Gentleman say when that message was sent to the Central Bank of Brazil, and when he expects an answer? Surely this is an attempt to browbeat His Majesty's Government over sterling balances?

Mr. Dalton

If it is such an attempt it will not succeed. I believe that the message was sent within the last few days, and we must allow a reasonable time for a reply.