§ 56. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs the present position in respect of compensation or restitution for British citizens whose property was appropriated by the Egyptian Government; whether further consideration has been given to the Egyptian claim for compensation for destruction of Egyptian property by military action; and whether British ships now continue to pass freely through the Suez Canal.
§ Commander NobleThe Anglo-Egyptian financial talks, whose scope includes the restitution of British property in Egypt and compensation where it is due, were resumed at Rome on 30th January.
The position remains unchanged that Her Majesty's Government do not admit liability to pay compensation for damage caused in Egypt by the events of November to December, 1956.
British ships continue to pass freely through the Canal.
§ Mr. SorensenDoes that mean that little progress is being made about compensation for our own nationals because of our refusal to recognise Egyptian claims relating to the destruction of their property?
§ Commander NobleNo, I do not think so. I am sure that the hon. Member will understand that I would not wish to say anything about the talks while they are still going on.