HC Deb 09 July 1952 vol 503 cc1290-1
13. Lieut.-Colonel Bromley-Davenport

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is aware of the delay in the transfer of money from Egypt to this country standing to the credit of British subjects who lost their employment in that country; and whether he will make representations to the Egyptian Government for these transfers to be expedited in view of the hardship to those concerned.

Mr. Nutting

I am aware that there have been delays in some cases. Her Majesty's Chargé d'Affaires in Alexandria has already been instructed to give any help that may be needed to expedite the consent of the Egyptian Government to these transfers. He has within the last few days made further representations to the new Egyptian Prime Minister on this matter.

Lieut.-Colonel Bromley-Davenport

In cases where all the Egyptian tax requirements have been satisfied, can my hon. Friend say how long he anticipates it will take the Egyptians to allow this money which has been accumulated over the years by the hard work and thrift of these unfortunate people to be transferred to this country?

Mr. Nutting

As I have already told my hon. and gallant Friend, we have made continued representations to the Egyptian Government to expedite a settlement in cases where all the other formalities have been cleared up.

Mr. Stokes

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that these people have been really very badly treated, and is it not possible for his Department to do something about it pending a settlement with the Egyptian Government?

Mr. Nutting

We have offered all help—

Mr. Stokes

Except cash.

Mr. Nutting

—in any legal costs where action before a court may be required, and we have offered help with the Egyptian authorities. We are aware of the very grievous nature of the hardship in certain of these cases. Of course, if any application were made to Her Majesty's Government for financial assistance, that would certainly be considered.