HC Deb 27 January 1948 vol 446 c829
58. Colonel Crosthwaite-Eyre

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer for what reasons His Majesty's Government are satisfied with the terms of the Anglo-Egyptian Payments Agreement dated 5th January, 1948.

Sir S. Cripps

Because they were the best obtainable in the circumstances of the negotiations and did justice to the needs of both parties.

Colonel Crosthwaite-Eyre

When the Chancellor of the Exchequer says that it does justice, does he include the handing over of this amount of convertible currency to the Egyptians, and is he aware that this currency will be used to our detriment and for purposes of luxury by the Egyptians while we suffer austerity at home?

Sir S. Cripps

If we take all the circumstances of the agreement together, I think that justice has been done.

Colonel Crosthwaite-Eyre

Will the right hon. and learned Gentleman say wherein is the justice?

Sir S. Cripps

If we take all the circumstances of the agreement together, they will be seen to be just to both parties.

Colonel Gomme-Duncan

Is this not another case of the right hon. and learned Gentleman's Department dealing with finance and not morals.