BRITISH POLITICS.

Hokitika Guardian, 24 July 1929, Page 5

BRITISH POLITICS.

IN THE COMMONS.

REPLIES TO QUESTIONS

(British Official Wireless.)

(Received this day at 11.25. a.m.) RUGBY, July 23.

Answering a question in the Commons regarding the amount the Soviet Government, as successors of the Russian Imperial Government, owe British investors, Mr Win. Graham (President of the Board of Trade) said the capital amount of bonds in sterling and roubles in Russian state loans, the guaranteed railway loan and loans to municipalities and other institutions in respect of which claims had been lodged with Russian Claims Department, were approximately £41,000,000 and 242,000,000 roubles respectively. In addition there was an unascertained aniount of accrued interest due on securities. He had no doubt that in any negotiations for the resumption of diplomatic relations with Russia, the question of getting some payment of amounts due or at least some recognition of the debts would be borne m mind by his colleagues in the Cabinet.. Questioned regarding the result of. the sale of German private property in Britain in accordance with the Treaty of Versailles, Mr Graham Said ' the total proceeds amount to date to £55,500,000. All British private claims against Germany and German nationals, which hitherto had been admitted have been: paid in full. It is estimated that after all such claims have been met, there will be a surplus which will be retained in accordance with the provisions of the treaty against Germany’s reparation obligations.. The Government have under consideration recommendations made by the committee of experts on reparations regarding German property not already liquidated.

Mr MacDonald announced that tomorrow he. would make a statement regarding the Government’s naval programme.