§ 57. Mr. J. M. HENDERSONasked the Minister of Munitions whether he will take the necessary steps to stop the export of lead, spelter, antimony, nickel, and other metals necessary for the manufacture of munitions of war; and whether he will at once take steps to stop all gambling in such metals on the metal exchanges?
§ Mr. LLOYD GEORGEThe necessary steps have been taken to stop the export of lead, spelter, antimony, and nickel and other metals necessary for the manufacture of munitions of war. The four metals named cannot be exported except to places in the British Empire. As regards the last part of the question, I am not clear what steps the hon. Member contemplates, but it is hoped so to control the markets that gambling is reduced to a minimum.
§ Mr. HENDERSONIs my right hon. Friend aware that there are time bargains, contangos, and backwardations and gambling contracts, and that the market would welcome a stop being put to these gamblings in these metals just as gambling was stopped on the Stock Exchange?
§ Mr. LLOYD GEORGEI will consider the suggestion of my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. HENDERSONI can assure him the market would welcome it.