§ Mr. Dayasked the Prime Minister what reply has been received by His Majesty's Government through the British agents from General Franco concerning compensation to be paid for British ships sunk and damaged by General Franco's forces in Spanish waters; and whether the full text has been communicated to all shipping interests directly or indirectly concerned?
§ Mr. ButlerI would refer the hon. Member to the reply given yesterday to the hon. Members for Derby (Mr. Noel-Baker), and Romford (Mr. Parker), to which I have for the moment nothing to add. The British interests concerned are kept fully informed of the text of the communications received from the Burgos authorities.
§ Mr. Dayasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the fact that there are at present 3,000,000 refugees in Spain in danger of starvation, he will make a statement as to the result of the consultations between His Majesty's Government and the United States and French Governments on the proposals to despatch supplies of food to the civilian population of Spain?
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§ Mr. ButlerI would refer the hon. Member to the statements on the subject of the relief of the Spanish civil population made by the Prime Minister and by myself in the course of the Debate on 31st January.
§ Mr. R. Gibsonasked the Prime Minister whether he has considered the resolution of the Greenock branch of the Amalgamated Society of Woodworkers regarding, inter alia, the transport of food supplies to Spain; and whether he has any statement to make on the matter?
§ Mr. ButlerYes, Sir. I would refer the hon. and learned Member to the statements made on behalf of the Government in the Debate on 31st January, to which I do not think there is anything to be added.