HC Deb 12 July 1984 vol 63 cc1351-2
14. Mr. Skinner

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what recent discussions he has had with other Finance Ministers regarding international debt and the banking crisis; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Lawson

The problem of international debt was thoroughly discussed at the London economic summit and is kept under close review.

Mr. Skinner

In view of the tidy mess that the Chancellor of the Exchequer and his colleagues on the Treasury Bench have made of this country's economy, does he really think that he is a fit and proper person to tell the Finance Ministers of Brazil, Argentina and Mexico, with their begging bowls, how to run their countries and get out of difficulties? Will he take my advice and send MacGregor, that financial whizz kid, out there; and if he has any difficulties getting him out of the country, will he shove him in one of those diplomaic bags and get in with him?

Mr. Lawson

The hon. Gentleman will not be surprised to learn that, not for the first time, I do not propose to take his advice.