HC Deb 19 November 1919 vol 121 c915
58. Mr. A. T. DAVIES

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether the Government were prepared to extend War Savings Certificates instead of issuing Premium Bonds?

Mr. BALDWIN

I am not certain what the hon. Member intends by the phrase "to extend War Savings Certificates," but if it intended to refer to the term of any particular certificate I may remind him that power was taken in the War Loan Act of this year to extend any five-year certificate for a further five years—that is to ten years in all—at the option of the holder.

Sir C. KINLOCH-COOKE

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that there is a considerable number of people who desire Premium Bonds and do not want War Savings Certificates?

Mr. BALDWIN

I think that is possible.

Captain WEDGWOOD BENN

Is the hon. Gentleman not of opinion that if Premium Bonds were issued people would sell War Savings Certificates in order to buy bonds?

Mr. BALDWIN

Again, I think that is possible.

Mr. MACQUISTEN

Is it to be made compulsory to buy Premium Bonds?