HC Deb 26 October 1953 vol 518 cc2413-4
13. Mr. Teeling

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what information he has in regard to the progress made in the recovery of the sums in dollars at present owing and in arrears to British companies in the Philippines and, in particular, to the Manila Railway Company (1906), Limited.

Mr. Nutting

Efforts made by the British company since the war on behalf of the bondholders to obtain payment have not so far been successful. With regard to other British companies, I am not aware of any other outstanding cases, but if the hon. Member will send me details I will, of course, examine them.

Mr. Teeling

Can my hon. Friend tell me whether the Manila Company has yet approached the Foreign Office with the idea of their supporting them in their claim? Is he aware that there are many shareholders in that company who are most anxious that this should happen and that the American interest in the same claim has already been paid in full?

Mr. Nutting

Yes, the company have now approached the Foreign Office, I am in touch with them, and I am prepared to consider in what way and at what stage we can help in any representations.

Forward to