§ 134. Mr. Toucheasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs why the mixed mission set up to deal with the future of British interests in Yugoslavia have not held a meeting to consider the position of the Trepca Mines, Limited, in spite of frequent requests from the company; and what action is being taken to prevent the lead and zinc mines of this company being expropriated without compensation by the Yugoslav Government.
§ Mr. MayhewThere are a number of points concerning the terms of reference of the Mixed Commission which,, in the light of the experience of other negotiations, it would be desirable to resolve before a further meeting takes place to consider any particular cases such as that referred to by the hon. Member. He can rest assured, however, that His Majesty's Government are fully aware of the need for an early meeting and are at present taking all possible steps to that end in negotiation with the Yugoslav Government. As regards the second part of the Question, the Yugoslav Government have informed His Majesty's Government that foreign property will be returned to its owners under certain conditions which are at present the subject of discussion. His Majesty's Government have no reason to suppose that this assurance will not be honoured.