HL Deb 14 February 1973 vol 338 cc1543-4
LORD NAPIER AND ETTRICK

My Lords, I beg leave to ask the Question which stands in my name on the Order Paper.

The Question was as follows:

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether it is true that, although a Petition of Right is pending, they are now considering steps which may prevent or delay an individual United Kingdom Rhodesian bondholder from obtaining redress in the United Kingdom in regard to the payment of dividends and redemptions defaulted upon since U.D.I.

THE LORD CHANCELLOR (LORD HAILSHAM OF SAINT MARYLEBONE)

Yes, my Lords.

LORD NAPIER AND ETTRICK

My Lords, can my noble and learned friend tell the House when the Petition of Right is likely to be heard in the High Court, who will represent the Crown, and, if judgment should be given against the Crown, will the Crown honour its obligations?

THE LORD CHANCELLOR

My Lords, the answer to the first part of the question is, No, I cannot; and to the second is, That will remain to be seen.

LORD NAPIER AND ETTRICK

My Lords, I am greatly obliged to my noble and learned friend.