Iran (UK Foreign Policy)
Debate between Lord Bellingham and Richard Bacon(11Â years, 10Â months ago)
Commons ChamberRead Full debate Read Hansard Text Read Debate Ministerial Extracts
Mr Bacon
I am listening to my hon. Friend with great interest. He may not have noticed a news piece on the Al-Monitor website that was published on 4 Novemberâonly the day before yesterdayâwith the headline âDirect US-Iran banking channel could cement nuclear dealâ. US and Iranian officials refused to comment on that piece, which says that the Americans are considering
âthe creation of what is known as a âblessed channelââ
to facilitate further, easier financial transactions.
Mr Bellingham
That is very interesting. On the one hand, this financial blackmail is taking place against various UK banks, but on the other, the US is trying to encourage and facilitate trade. This does need looking at, and I hope that the Minister will comment on it.