HC Deb 14 April 1953 vol 514 cc26-7
34. Sir J. Lucas

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the total amount of free gifts from the Dominions and Colonies to this country, both during and since the late war, respectively; and the amount of interest-free loans.

Mr. Maudling

As the reply contains a number of figures, I will, with permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.

Sir J. Lucas

In view of the fact that these figures are bound to be absolutely magnificent, will my hon. Friend do his best to make them well known in the country; and will they include also the large amounts given for the Red Cross and in food parcels?

Mr. Maudling

I agree with my hon. Friend as to the importance of making these figures widely known. I am sure that the Question which he has asked will help in that direction.

The amounts are as follows:

— £ million
During the war Since the war
From the independent Commonwealth countries:
Gifts … … 225 46
Interest-free loans … … 163 —
From the Colonies:
Gifts … … 22 —
Interest-free loans … … 16 2

These figures cover only cash receipts by the United Kingdom Government. They do not, therefore, include gifts or loans in the form of goods and services, of which the value in most cases cannot be accurately computed. Outstanding examples of such assistance are Canadian mutual aid during the war, estimated to have been worth about £400 million, and the air training schemes in Canada, South Africa and Southern Rhodesia.