HC Deb 19 March 1940 vol 358 cc1828-9W
Mr. Hamilton Kerr

asked the Minister of Economic Warfare why the newly-concluded Anglo-Norwegian Trade Agreement authorises Norway to import for overseas on the same scale as before the war, notwithstanding the fact that part of her imports were re-exported to Germany before the war; and whether he has any adequate guarantees that the surplus in excess of Norway's own requirements will not find its way to Germany?

Mr. Cross

I fear I cannot answer my hon. Friend's Question fully without explaining the terms of the agreement which, as I have had occasion to point out before, it is not possible for me to do. But I must not be taken as agreeing that the position as regards Norwegian imports is accurately stated in the Question. My hon. Friend may rest assured that we have obtained guarantees, supported by adequate administrative provisions that overseas imports will not be re-exported to Germany.