§ 14. Mr. FIELDasked if, in the matter of the general moratorium, it is intended that the same shall apply to existing ordinary trade contracts for all articles of food made under recent normal conditions; and whether contractors so engaged will be relieved from the fulfilment of their contracts?
§ Mr. LLOYD GEORGEGenerally speaking, and subject to the various exceptions which are appended to the Proclamation, the general moratorium would affect any payment which has become due and payable before the 4th day of August last, or which becomes due and payable 2243 while the moratorium continues in pursuance of an ordinary trade contract for articles of food made at any time before the 4th day of August last, whether under normal circumstances or not. It will be noticed, of course, that any person who takes advantage of the moratorium will be compelled to pay interest on his debt. The moratorium only affects the date on which it is necessary to pay debts, and does not affect any other contractual obligations.
§ Mr. KEIR HARDIEWill it apply to such domestic debts as repayments by instalments for furniture, sewing machines, rent, etc.?
§ Mr. LLOYD GEORGEI have already given a reply to this question, and if the hon. Member will refer to the Debate he will find his question there answered.