HC Deb 16 November 1948 vol 458 cc23-4W
71. Sir P. Macdonald

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will make a statement about the effect upon this country of the recent decision of Turkey that she must bring her import trade from Britain to a standstill, owing to the fall of her sterling balances in this country; and what steps is it proposed to take to assist Turkey to re-open this trade at the earliest possible opportunity.

Mr. Bottomley

I am aware of the difficulties which have recently arisen in our trading relations with Turkey but these have not resulted in a standstill in trade. Existing import licences are still valid and the issue of new licences has not, I am informed, been completely suspended. So far as the future is concerned a small mission is leaving shortly for Angora to discuss trade and payments questions with the Turkish Government.