§ Mr. Skeetasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether it is the policy of Her Majesty's Government to ensure that interest is charged on compensation that remains outstanding and unpaid in respect of British assets unilaterally acquired.
§ Mr. Anthony RoyleHer Majesty's Government's policy is based upon international law, which requires compensation for expropriated property to be prompt, adequate and effective. In our view, although much depends upon the circumstances of each case, late payments of compensation should bear interest. Her Majesty's Government cannot, however, ensure that this is done in every case where British assets are expropriated since many such cases are settled by a process of negotiation and agreement in which Her Majesty's Government are not directly involved.