HC Deb 02 August 1965 vol 717 cc1054-5
30. Sir W. Teeling

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what is the present position concerning the Baltic Bonds negotiations.

Mr. Padley

It has recently been agreed with the Soviet Government that the negotiations on outstanding post-1939 claims on both sides should be resumed in Moscow on 12th October.

Sir W. Teeling

Does the hon. Gentleman realise how relieved the people who are interested in this problem, especially older people, will be at this? However, if things go on for far too long, cannot he tell the Russians that we are perfectly prepared to use the gold which we hold in this country to compensate the people who are waiting?

Mr. Padley

I think that at the present stage, having arranged the meeting on 12th October, it would be wise to await the outcome of those discussions.