HC Deb 22 June 1937 vol 325 cc1047-8W
Mr. Alexander

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether there was any discussion with the representatives of the Dominions at the recent Imperial Conference with regard to the future of outstanding war debts due from the Dominions to this country?

Sir J. Simon

No, Sir.

Mr. Alexander

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether it is correct to infer from Command Paper 5480 that the arrears of principal and interest now due to the United States in respect of British war debts amounts to approximately£174,000,000; whether it is proposed to continue to allow the arrears to accumulate; or whether it is proposed to reopen discussion of the matter with the United States Government in connection with any proposals for a trade agreement?

Sir J. Simon

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative, and that to the third part is in the negative. In reply to the second part of the question, I would refer the right hon. Member to the terms of the Note addressed to the United States Government on the 14th June.