§ 53. Sir J. D. REESasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that several companies producing gold from low-grade ore, which in pre-war time could be worked at a profit, are now compelled to close down, while others are threatened with the like fate; and, if so, whether His Majesty's Government proposes by way of bonus per ounce or by recoupment of excess cost of working expenses, or in such other manner as may appear feasible or 678 desirable, to prevent any reduction in the production of gold at a time when such production is of national importance, and to compensate companies which produce under the present circumstances of increased charges for labour and materials, and consequently of ever-increasing cost of production, so that they may be placed in the same position as the producers of all other commodities, who receive higher prices, while gold alone, as the standard of value, obtains no apprecation in this respect?
§ Mr. BONAR LAWThe question raised by my hon. Friend is receiving careful consideration, but I am not at present in a position to make any statement on the subject.