HC Deb 17 February 1914 vol 58 cc758-9
36. Mr. WATT

asked the Secretary for Scotland whether his attention has been called to the practice of moneylenders in Scotland demanding fees from prospective borrowers before they will consent to look into their cases and then in the great majority of instances refusing to grant any loans; and, if so, whether he will introduce legislation to prohibit such practices?

The SECRETARY for SCOTLAND (Mr. McKinnon Wood)

My attention has been called to a single case of the kind described. I could not regard this as a sufficient basis for legislation; but if and when legislation to amend the Moneylenders Acts is proposed the point raised will no doubt receive attention.