HC Deb 30 November 1967 vol 755 c181W
Mr. Stratton Mills

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will list the sterling balances held by each country prior to devaluation.

Mr. Diamond

I cannot give figures for sterling holdings of individual countries. The usual details of sterling holdings, broken down by the main geogragraphical regions, as at the end of September, 1967, will be published in the Bank of England Bulletin for December.

Mr. Stratton Mills

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what discussions he has had with the Malaysian Govern-men, both prior to and after devaluation, having regard to their sterling balances of some £300 million; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Diamond

In accordance with normal practice there have been discussions from time to time with the Malaysian Government on sterling and financial questions generally. The Malaysian Government in common with other Sterling Area Governments received a message explaining the decision to devalue shortly before the official announcement.