§ 55. Mr. STEWARTasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether an arrangement has been made between the British Government and the Government of the United States whereby the price of silver has been fixed for a period of one year; and, if so, whether, with a view to preventing violent oscillations in exchange during the period of trade reconstruction after the War, he will endeavour to prolong the duration of the agreement for a further period of five years and, if possible, to extend its scope by inviting France and China to join in supporting such an arrangement?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWDiscussions respecting the conclusion of an arrangement are now proceeding, but no agreement has yet been reached. I note the suggestion made by my hon. Friend in the last part of the question, but I doubt if it would be practicable.
§ Mr. STEWARTIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that statements have been made in the Press that there is such an agreement, and if not true will he use his influence to see they are not repeated?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWI think an agreement may possibly be reached, but it certainly has not been reached as yet.