HC Deb 01 July 1919 vol 117 c768
53. Mr. BOTTOMLEY

asked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that a number of persons are withholding subscriptions from the new War Loan as a protest against the shortage of good beer and the continuance of the 50 per cent. increase in railway fares; and whether he will consider the question of removing these two grievances before the closing of the lists?

The CHANCELLOR of the EXCHEQUER (Mr. Chamberlain)

I have made careful inquiries into this point and I find there is no evidence that subscriptions to the new Loan are being withheld on account of these alleged grievances. The second part of the question does not therefore, arise.

Mr. BILLING

Would the right hon. Gentleman say from whom he made these inquiries?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

From those who have been engaged in conducting the loan campaign.

Mr. BOTTOMLEY

Would the right hon. Gentleman enter into a compact with me that if he will rescind these obsolete war restrictions I will obtain him a satisfactory guarantee of a hundred million bonds?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I think the hon. Member could do that at least without any help.

Mr. BOTTOMLEY

May I say that the right hon. Gentleman locks with favour on the scheme I am now propounding for this purpose?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I am afraid I have no knowledge of the hon. Gentler man's scheme.