HC Deb 22 March 1917 vol 91 cc2056-7
58. Mr. CURRIE

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he has seen a copy of a circular issued by the Mortgage and Debenture Company, of Moor-gate Street, E.C., repeating a suggestion that its debenture holders should accept 16s. in the £ for their holdings, based upon an alleged opinion of the Treasury; and whether he will communicate to the House the wishes and opinions which were communicated to the company by the Treasury?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I have seen the circular referred to, which, in accordance with the wishes of the Treasury as communicated to the company, makes no mention of the Treasury of any kind.

Mr. CURRIE

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that this company has made statements to its creditors concerning the wishes of the Treasury that were not authorised by the Treasury?

Mr. BONAR LAW

Yes, that is so. I gave a reply to that effect, I think, to a previous question by the hon. Member.

Mr. CURRIE

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that it would be only fair to these creditors who have been left under a wilful misunderstanding as to his wishes that they should be put right as to what the Treasury really wishes?

Mr. BONAR LAW

If there is any advantage in publicity, I hope that the hon. Gentleman's question and my answer will give it.