RUSSIAN DEBT (Hansard, 29 November 1949)

HC Deb 29 November 1949 vol 470 cc940-51 940

§ 41. Sir Waldron Smithers
asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the amount in devalued pounds of the debt of the Russian Government to Britain?

§ Sir S. Cripps
There is nothing to add to the reply given to the hon. Member on 20th January, except that the figure of £38 million for debts due in respect of the 1939–45 war now stands at £36 million as a result of repayments made. The devaluation of the pound does not affect the figures, as the indebtedness is expressed in sterling.

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§ Sir W. Smithers
Could the right hon. and learned Gentleman say what steps he has taken to recover this debt—

§ Mr. Shurmer
Send the hon. Gentleman there.

§ Sir W. Smithers
—and will the debt be taken into consideration when entering into trade negotiations? Also will the right hon. and learned Gentleman realise that it is dangerous to do business with anyone who does not know the meaning of the word "honesty"?

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