§ 20. Colonel J. R. H. Hutchisonasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs the terms and conditions attached to the proposed loan to Yugoslavia; and whether he will make a statement.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Ernest Davies)As has been officially announced, His Majesty's Government have offered the Yugoslav Government a credit of £3 million for the purchase of foodstuffs, consumer goods, and any consequential requirements. Discussions on the terms of the credit are in progress. No political conditions are attached.
§ Colonel HutchisonMay I ask the hon. Gentleman two questions: are there any concurrent negotiations for American credit of a similar type, and will he bear 1135 in mind the position in which Archbishop Stepinac, about whom so many protests were made earlier, is held? Can the hon. Gentleman do anything to alleviate his conditions?
§ Mr. DaviesAs regards the first part of that supplementary question, it is known that discussions are going on with the United States and Yugoslavia concerning credits. I do not think that the second part arises out of this Question, which asked for the terms and conditions. I have stated that there are no conditions or stipulations attached to the loan.
§ Brigadier RaynerCan the Yugoslav Government be asked to guarantee that all the kidnapped Greek children will be returned by a certain date?
§ Mr. DaviesThis credit has already been entered into and has been done without conditions. As regards the question of Greek children, I am sure the House will be glad to know that a number of children are already being returned.
§ Mr. PickthornHas there been complete agreement between His Majesty's Government and the United States Government upon the political conditions, or the absence of political conditions, of any loans or other financial assistance to Yugoslavia?
§ Mr. DaviesThere is no disagreement with the United States over—
§ Mr. PickthornHas there been any agreement?
§ Mr. DaviesThere has been complete consultation with the United States over the credit, which is under discussion or has been completed, for Yugoslavia.