HC Deb 06 March 1957 vol 566 cc349-50
26. Mr. Dugdale

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what negotiations are taking place with reference to the property of British nationals impounded by the Egyptian Government.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

There are no negotiations at the moment on this matter with the Egyptian Government. On 27th January, at Her Majesty's Government's request, the Swiss Legation in Cairo delivered a Note to the Egyptian Government calling on them to terminate the measures they had taken against British nationals and property during the period of armed conflict. The Egyptian Government have not yet replied.

Mr. Dugdale

Does not the right hon. and learned Gentleman think it would be a good thing if such negotiations were opened at an early date?

Mr. Lloyd

Certainly I think it is right that the negotiations should be opened at the appropriate time.