HC Deb 07 March 1967 vol 742 c1248
27. Captain W. Elliot

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what was the value of the United States securities owned by British nationals when these were compulsorily acquired by the British Government during the last war; and what is the value of these securities today, including the proceeds of sales already made.

Mr. Callaghan

The value of United States securities acquired by Her Majesty's Government from British nationals during the war was about £163 million. Many of them were sold during the war and in more recent years. Securities to the value of £316 million held in liquid form were transferred to the first line of reserves in February, 1966. The value of those which remain is approximately £180 million.

28. Captain W. Elliot

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether Her Majesty's Government have completed the sales of British-owned United States securities.

Mr. Callaghan

No, though much the greater part of the portfolio is now in liquid form.

Captain Elliot

Would not the right hon. Gentleman agree that the increase in the value of these securities as well as being most satisfactory is rather startling? Would not he consider that if he needs money to repay loans, it might be better to use these assets as a security to raise a loan instead of using the proceeds as if they were current earnings?

Mr. Callaghan

I agree that it would be an alternative proposition. I have followed what I thought was an excellent precedent set by my predecessor, and I do not feel that it would be right for me to depart from it at this stage.