HC Deb 28 July 1958 vol 592 cc920-1
6. Mr. Teeling

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he now has any further information or reply from the Argentine Government concerning the claims for compensation by the Anglo-Argentine Tramways Company or its subsidiaries.

Mr. Ian Harvey

The Argentine Government have not responded to the company's indication of their willingness to enter into negotiations for an out of court settlement.

Mr. Teeling

Is my hon. Friend aware that only today, just before lunch, the Argentine Embassy informed me that the court is about to make a decision on this case, probably this week? But, even if that decision is made, is it not true that the claim may not be settled for ages? It would be done much quicker if a final settlement out of court were pressed. Can my hon. Friend say whether it is true, either officially or unofficially, that the Argentine Government—

Mr. Speaker

I think the hon. Gentleman is reading.

Mr. Teeling

May I ask if the Argentine Government have stated whether they would be willing to come to a settlement if the company here would state exactly how much it requires? In view of the fact that the Primiteva Company did manage to have this settlement made for itself, which showed that the Argentine Government were desirous of settling the outstanding claims, would it not be as well for the British Government to try to do that again?

Mr. Harvey

This is largely a matter between the company and the Argentine Government. I have indicated that the Government will assist in any way possible. The ways in which the hon. Gentleman has suggested we should assist do not fall under that heading.