HC Deb 16 April 1953 vol 514 c350
8. Sir Edward Keeling

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what progress has been made in the settlement by Costa Rica of its debt.

Mr. Maudling

In December last the Costa Rican Government stated that it was ready to begin discussions with the Council of Foreign Bondholders and hoped to arrive at a satisfactory settlement of the sterling debt as soon as possible along the same lines as the settlement of the dollar debt, now awaiting ratification. So far, however, the Costa Rican Government have failed to nominate any representative for the discussions.

Sir E. Keeling

Is my hon. Friend aware that the American creditors, who have made an agreement, are no more long-suffering that the British creditors?

Mr. Maudling

Yes, I am aware of this feature of the situation in which my right hon. Friend is taking a close interest.