19. Mr. Edward M. Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what progress he has made in negotiating compensation terms for British assets seized in Indonesia: and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WhitlockIn April the Indonesian Government reaffirmed their intention to give compensation to the owners of foreign enterprises who do not wish to take repossession.
17 Her Majesty's Government have advised all companies known to be concerned to resubmit fresh applications in the required form, even if their claims have already been lodged. Her Majesty's Government will continue to help whenever required.
Mr. TaylorFor how long have these negotiations been proceeding? What plans have the Government for believing that compensation will eventually be given and be satisfactory?
§ Mr. WhitlockThe Indonesian Government's first concern was to reach agreement with those companies wishing to resume their operations in Indonesia. The agreements were concluded with most companies in that respect last year. The complexity of the issues and the desirability of reaching a settlement by agreement naturally militate against a hurried conclusion of the outstanding claims for compensation.
§ Mr. DalyellWould my hon. Friend confirm that these negotiations have been conducted with urgency and good will?
§ Mr. WhitlockThey are being conducted with good will and all possible urgency.