HC Deb 28 July 1959 vol 610 cc311-2
42. Mr. Biggs-Davison

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will make a statement about the recent discussions in London between officials of Commonwealth countries regarding the mobilisation of their economic resources.

Mr. Amory

I do not think I can add anything at present to the reply given by my hon. Friend the Economic Secretary to my hon. Friend the Member for Maldon (Mr. B. Harrison) on 23rd July.

Mr. Biggs-Davison

Will my right hon. Friend say whether these officials are working under the aegis of the Commonwealth Economic Consultative Council? Has that body come into existence, and is Marlborough House ready for occupation by it?

Mr. Amory

The answer to the first part of the supplementary question is "Yes". These meetings were held under the aegis of the Commonwealth Economic Consultative Council and the report of the officials has now been passed back to the Governments for consideration. As to the second part of the supplementary question, I understand that progress is being made with the plans for the preparation of Marlborough House.