HC Deb 24 January 1972 vol 829 cc316-7W
Mr. Skeet

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether British and Anglo-Dutch petroleum companies have been compensated for distribution networks, equipment and service taken over by the Libyan Government several years ago; and what representations Her Majesty's Government have made to ensure compliance with international law that compensation should be paid within a reasonable time after acquisition.

Mr. Kershaw

Her Majesty's Government drew the attention of the Libyan Government to the requirements of international law that compensation in such cases should be prompt, adequate and effective. Her Majesty's Government asked for information as to when the compensation committees specified in the nationalisation decree would be set up and how the oil distribution companies nationalised on 4th July, 1970, would have a formal opportunity to represent their case to the committees. So far as I am aware, no compensation has yet been paid, although as regards certain companies an assessment of the compensation payable to them has been made by the Committees established under the nationalisation decree.

Mr. Clinton Davis

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what proposals have been received from the Libyan Government to pay compensation for the acquisition by that Government of British Petroleum.

Mr. Godber

Her Majesty's Government have received no specific proposals from the Libyan Government on this matter. The Libyan nationalisation decree provided for the appointment of a committee of three Libyan officials who have three months to arrive at a figure to be awarded to British Petroleum as compensation. British Petroleum have called for arbitration in accordance with the terms of their concession, and this has the full support of Her Majesty's Government.