HC Deb 20 March 1951 vol 485 cc2309-10

The following Question stood upon the Order Paper m the name of Wing Commander HULBERT:

85. To ask the President of the Board of Trade if he will make a statement about the recent Anglo-Portuguese talks held in London.

Mr. Bottomley

I will, with your permission, Mr. Deputy-Speaker, reply to Question 85.

The discussions related to the likely pattern of Anglo-Portuguese trade in the current year. Both Governments are anxious to secure that the trade in goods which have been traditional, including goods which are essential to our respective economies, should be maintained so far as possible in spite of increasing difficulties presented by shortages, and there was a useful review of the whole position. A number of financial matters were also discussed including the form of a new monetary Agreement which will replace the current Agreement which expires next month.

Wing Commander Hulbert

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that his reply will give great satisfaction to our oldest Ally?