HC Deb 08 April 1963 vol 675 c916
56. Mr. Turton

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether he will make a statement about the unusual delay in the repayment to Colonel Stather of Stockton Lane, York, of the bank balance seized by the Egyptian Government in 1956 and due to him under the terms of the Anglo-Egyptian Agreement.

Mr. P. Thomas

The first £E1,000 of this transfer has now been paid and a cheque for the sterling equivalent (£821 13s. 8d.) has been sent to Colonel Stather. The transfer of a further £2,421 17s. 2d. has also been authorised and is in process of payment.

Mr. Turton

In view of the long series of mischances that have meant a great delay in the repayment to Colonel Stather of his money, is my hon. Friend aware that there has been a serious loss of exchange? Is there any way in which Colonel Stather can recover this loss through the delay which has been caused?

Mr. Thomas

No, Sir. The rate used for transfers is the current rate and the difference is not compensable.