HC Deb 06 April 1948 vol 449 cc30-1
61. Sir Stanley Reed

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether any potash was exported from Germany during the 12 months to the latest convenient date; the destination of any exports and the purpose to which any funds realised were directed.

The Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Mayhew)

During the 12-months period to 31st March, 1948, approximately 32,000 tons of potash were exported from the bizonal area. Recipient countries were Czechoslovakia, Belgium, U.S.A., and the United Kingdom. The proceeds were used to buy essential goods and services for the combined zone.

Sir S. Reed

May I ask how the Under-Secretary reconciles this user of the German exports of potash with the guarantees to those who subscribed to the German potash loan?

Mr. Mayhew

No, Sir. The German exports must in present circumstances go first to pay for essential German imports.

Sir S. Reed

Will the Under-Secretary give consideration to the definite guarantee that the first charge on all realisations of potash exports should go to the servicing of the loan?

Mr. Mayhew

This is a matter concerning the quadripartite agreement, that the first claim on the proceeds of German exports should go towards German imports. While the taxpayers of Britain and the United States are bridging the gap in the German balance of payments, I am sure that should continue.

Brigadier Medlicott

Is the Under-Secretary aware that there is a serious shortage of potash in Norfolk and other parts of the country, and will he, therefore, do all he can to increase the allocation of potash to the United Kingdom?

Mr. Mayhew

Yes, Sir, as a Norfolk M.P. I appreciate that. This is a matter of international allocation, which is borne in mind in making these exports.

Major Legge-Bourke

Will the Under-Secretary bear in mind the state of potash production in Palestine, and will he say whether any efforts are being made to—

Mr. Speaker

This Question concerns potash from Germany and not from Palestine.

Major Legge-Bourke

Has the Under-Secretary attempted to cover any possible loss of potash from Palestine by getting potash from Germany?