§ 6. Mr. E. Fletcherasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs how much British capital has been sequestered by the Government of Egypt since 20th July, 1956.
§ Mr. Ian HarveyI would refer the hon. Gentleman to the answer which my right hon. and learned Friend gave to the hon. Member for Rugby (Mr. J. Johnson) on 28th January.
§ Mr. FletcherWhat is the attitude of the Government with regard to the capital assets of the British Government in Egypt?
§ Mr. HarveyI am afraid that I cannot add to what has already been said on the subject.
§ Captain WaterhouseWill the Minister give an assurance that, until some settlement is achieved with Colonel Nasser about these thefts, no funds will be released to him by this country or, as far as we can prevent it, by our allies?
§ Mr. HarveyThat is certainly a point which will be taken very carefully into account.
§ Mr. BevanIs it not apparently the standard practice now in Egypt to get British nationals who are leaving Egypt to say that they have sold their assets voluntarily when they have very often been sold for quite nominal sums, and will he take this into account?
§ Mr. HarveyYes. I am very much obliged to the right hon. Gentleman for making that point.
§ Sir Peter AgnewCan my hon. Friend say whether the Government have power to make restitution to those concerned out of the capital balances held on Egypt's account in London and, if not, will they take that power?
§ Mr. HarveyThat is another matter under consideration. I will certainly see that the point is taken account of.