§ Mr. Cordleasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs whether he is satisfied that adequate compensation will 100W be made to British industry for loss of property and assets caused by the rebellion in the Eastern Region of Nigeria; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WhitlockThe general attitude of the Federal Government can be judged from their statement of 13th April, 1968, when they reaffirmed that it is their policy to honour all financial obligations and contracts legally entered into by foreign business and interests in all parts of Nigeria.
As regards the destruction of property and threats of direct action against British companies, I myself as well as representatives of British business discussed the threats with the Federal Commissioner for External Affairs on his recent visit to London and I have every reason to believe that the Federal Government continues to accept its responsibilities. Meanwhile we strongly deplore the reported mob attack against the Shell Company's Head Office and other British owned premises in Port Harcourt.