§ 5. Mr. KINGasked what is the total amount of funds in the hands of the Charity Commissioners connected with the five schemes certified in 1913 for submission to Parliament and the seven schemes similarly certified in 1914; whether these funds are now invested in War Loan or Exchequer Bonds; and, if not, whether they will be so invested in the near future?
Mr. ALLENThe funds belonging to the various charities referred to in the hon. Member's question which now stand in the name of the Official Trustees of Charitable Funds are as follows:—
The Charity Commissioners are not aware that the trustees of the several interested charities desire that any change should be made in the investments.
£ s. d. War Loan 3½ per cent 1,162 12 5 Consols 6,228 0 11 India 3½ per cent. Stock 78 11 7 Metropolitan Consolidated Stock 44 12 11
§ 6. Mr. KINGasked whether it is intended to proceed next Session with the five schemes under Charitable Trusts Acts, 1853, Sections 54–60, certified in 1913, and the seven schemes certified in 1914; and whether, in order to release the funds therein involved for charitable public purpose and to facilitate the investments of these properties in War Loan, these schemes will be as required by Statute?
Mr. ALLENIt is the intention of the Charity Commissioners that the schemes in question should be proceeded with so soon as there appears to be a reasonable prospect of their receiving legislative sanction. The schemes have been fully set out as required by Statute in the Appendix to the Report of the Charity Commissioners for the year 1913, and the Appendix to the similar Report for the year 1914 presented to Parliament.
§ Mr. KINGIs there no intention to proceed at an early date with these schemes, or will they be put off till after the War?
Mr. ALLENI can only say that the Charity Comissioners are considering what chances there are of proceeding with them at an early date. They are anxious to proceed with them as soon as possible.