§ 55. Mr. ANDERSONasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that the Nitrate Producers' Steamship Company, with an issued capital of £266,265, has made, a profit for last year of £369,804; whether he is further aware that such profits help to inflate the rising cost of living and cause dissatisfaction; and what steps the Government intend to take in this matter?
§ Mr. BALDWINThe attention of the Chancellor of the Exchequer had not been previously drawn to this case. He has already fully explained to the House the steps taken by the Government to restrict shipping profits.
§ Mr. ANDERSONAre those steps going to be really in the nature of business and not just window-dressing as was the case of National Service and Food Control?
§ Mr. HOUSTONIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the share capital very inadequately represents the value of the steamers even at pre-war prices?