HC Deb 17 June 1952 vol 502 c970
21. Mr. Edelman

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will authorise the export of books from Britain to Israel to be paid for in Israeli currency.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I regret that I cannot accept this suggestion.

Mr. Edelman

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that at the present time the Russians are sending into Israel a great deal of propaganda material printed in English, and that the Americans have made special arrangements for the export of books to Israel? Would not it be wise to consider a special arrangement by which our books might be sent to Israel and paid for in Israeli currency?

Mr. Butler

I have discussed this question with the representative of Israel. I realise that there is a genuine case here, but our difficulty is in deciding whether to start making an exception in favour of particular exports, even books. I will bear the question in mind. It has a legitimate background and it is an important matter.

Mr. Chetwynd

Would the right hon. Gentleman consider the special case of scientific and technical journals, for which there is great need in Israel?