HC Deb 18 March 1968 vol 761 cc13-4W
54. Mr. Leadbitter

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if, in approving the loan proposals to Egypt to provide a short-term facility from Western financial institutions to meet its obligations to the International Monetary Fund, he obtained an assurance that the loan granted would not be used for the purchase of armaments for belligerent purposes, and any loan support would be withdrawn if President Nasser continues to advocate military action against Israel.

Mr. Goronwy Roberts

No. But my hon. Friend will have seen the reports that the United Arab Republic has, following the granting of the facility, met its obligations to the International Monetary Fund.

The intention is that the facility should be repaid in full following further drawings which the International Monetary Fund have just agreed should be made to the United Arab Republic.

Sir B. Janner

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether, in view of the continuous increase of armaments being acquired by the United Arab Republic and President Nasser's advocacy of military action againset Israel, he will reconsider Her Majesty's Government's decision to lend money to the United Arab Republic to enable her to obtain further loans from the international funds without adequate safeguards that any such loan will not be used for belligerent purposes.

Mr. Goronwy Roberts

No. I would refer my hon. Friend to my answer today to my hon. Friend the Member for The Hartlepools (Mr. Leadbitter).