HC Deb 07 April 1919 vol 114 cc1654-5
47. Mr. RAPER

asked whether Lord Sumner's Committee have now been granted the necessary powers to enable them to make a thorough investigation into the matter of the British Cellulose and Chemical Manufacturing Company; and when the Committee's Report will be forthcoming?

Mr. BONAR LAW

All necessary powers were, in my opinion, granted when the Commission was appointed.

Mr. RAPER

Will the right hon. Gentleman answer the second part of the question?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I answered that a few days ago. Lord Sumner, who is the Chairman of that Committee, is engaged in Paris in connection with the Reparation Committee, but he hopes to make a Report almost immediately after his return.

Lieutenant-Colonel C. MALONE

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the British Cellulose and Chemical Manufacturing Company are about to increase their share capital by £1,500,000, and is this not a good example in which the Chancellor of the Exchequer might enforce his powers?

Mr. BONAR LAW

I do not quite follow that question. The Chancellor of the Exchequer, I understand, has now no power over home issues.