§ 24. Mr. Warbeyasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he will give an assurance that in any agreement entered into with the U.S. authorities regarding Britain's share in the European Recovery Programme, no condition will be accepted which will limit the freedom of the British Government and British exporters to determine the nature and destination of British exports.
§ Mr. MayhewIt is not possible for me to give assurances which would limit His Majesty's Government's freedom of action in prospective negotiations with a foreign power, but I have at present no indication that a condition of the kind to which my hon. Friend refers will be included in any agreement between His Majesty's Government and the United States Government in regard to the European Recovery Programme.
§ Mr. WarbeyIs my hon. Friend aware that the latter part of the reply will give general satisfaction, but the first part will appear rather disturbing to those who are anxious that Marshall Aid shall be used as a genuine means of aiding the economic independence of this country?
§ Mr. MayhewI am pleased enough it I have given even partial satisfaction to my hon. Friend.