HC Deb 04 December 1916 vol 88 cc633-4
24. Major HUNT

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether any Government Department is now making purchases, or has during the War made purchases, from Merton and Company, directly or indirectly through brokers or through subsidiary firms?

Mr. PRETYMAN

I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to my answer to a question asked by the hon. Member for Eastbourne on the 14th November, of which I am sending him a copy.

25. Major HUNT

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, in view of the ramifications of the firm of Merton and Company, which have enabled them to obtain control over the metal trade of the United Kingdom and of our Dominions, he can say why steps have not been taken to close up this firm, as in the case of other firms of small importance?

Mr. PRETYMAN

Steps have not been taken to wind up the business of Henry R. Merton and Company, Limited, because that company is not within the provisions of Section 1 of the Trading With the Enemy Amendment Act, 1916.

Major HUNT

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that unless this firm is wound up now, as it is entirely under the Germans, they will rule our methods again after the War exactly as before? There is no answer to that.

26. Major HUNT

asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will explain how the private transfer of a certain number of shares of Merton and Company to the friends of the present directors and shareholders has in any way purged this firm of German connections and influence, seeing that for all practical purposes they are unchanged in their constitution and continue to carry on business as before?

Mr. PRETYMAN

The constitution of Henry R. Merton and Company, Limited, has been substantially changed by the transfer of the shares held by enemies to British subjects.

Major HUNT

Is it not practically under German control? Does not the hon. Gentleman know it quite well?

Mr. PRETYMAN

No, Sir; I cannot say that.

Mr. G. FABER

Will the hon. Gentleman say what percentage of shares is held by British subjects?

Mr. PRETYMAN

Nearly the whole now.