HC Deb 27 January 1958 vol 581 cc17-8
19. Mr. Wall

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what action he is taking to compensate British firms and individuals whose property the Egyptian Government are now nationalising.

25. Mr. Younger

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will make a statement on the progress of the current negotiations with Egypt.

36. Mr. Teeling

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what is the present position concerning Maltese who have lost property and businesses in Egypt; whether they are included in the present negotiations; and if he will make a statement on the present position of such negotiations.

Commander Noble

The Anglo-Egyptian financial talks, which were adjourned on 12th December, are due to be resumed in Rome on 30th January. These talks are concerned with the property of British subjects of Maltese origin no less than with other British property. They will, of course, cover the question of compensation for property nationalised by the Egyptians following the events of 1956.

Mr. Wall

Is my right hon. and gallant Friend aware that while these talks have been going on property that was sequestered at the time of Suez is now being nationalised at a fraction of the true cost? Will my right hon. Friend instruct the negotiators to bear these facts in mind?

Commander Noble

If my hon. Friend has any details of such nationalisation of property that has already been sequestered, I would be grateful if he would let me have them.

Mr. Younger

While welcoming the fact that these negotiations are to be resumed, may I ask whether there is a direct connection between these negotiations and the prospect of renewing relations with Egypt generally? Is the right hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that a lot of people think that these outstanding questions, including the question which was mentioned by an hon. Member opposite earlier, could be more easily solved if we were in diplomatic relationship?

Commander Noble

Yes, I think it is common sense to say that these financial talks are a first step.

Mr. Teeling

When my right hon. and gallant Friend says that the Maltese are included, can he say just where the Maltese who are involved are to get in touch with the Government? The British obviously do so here in London. Is there any organisation in Malta, or must the Maltese go to Rome?

Commander Noble

I cannot give my hon. Friend that information now, but I will certainly let him have it.

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