asked the Prime Minister whether anything has been done to dispose of the Government holdings in the Anglo-Persian Oil Company shares; and whether he will make a statement to the House on the subject?

asked the Prime Minister what negotiations have taken place relating to the proposed sale of the Government holding in the Anglo-Persian Oil Company?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN:

Some 18 months ago a proposal for the sale of these shares was made, and on the recommendation of a Cabinet Committee which examined the question, it was decided to reject the proposal. Recently, further proposals of this nature have been put forward. The Government has not had time to reach a final decision, and it has been their intention to refer the matter to a similar Cabinet Committee before so doing.

Can we have an assurance that before anything definite is done it will be brought to the attention of this House?

May I ask where the inquiries about the sale of these shares originated? Who are the people making these suggestions?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN:

The inquiry originated with the hon. Member opposite, I take it.

Who makes the suggestion?

May I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether in the negotiations which have taken place any arrangement, even of a tentative character, has been come to between the contracting parties?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN:

No, Sir.

Who are the parties with whom the Government are negotiating?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN:

It does not seem to be correct to say that the Government have been negotiating with any parties. Certain proposals have been put before the Government, which has not yet had time to consider them.

By whom?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN:

On the part of various oil interests.