SIBERIAN BANK (SALE OF SHARES).

HC Deb 21 April 1920 vol 128 c397

66. Mr. MacCALLUM SCOTT

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Overseas Trade Department whether the shares that the Government hold in the Siberian Bank have been sold; and, if so, to whom and on what conditions?

Mr. BALDWIN

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative, but negotiations are in progress.

Mr. SCOTT

Has an option been given to any individual with regard to those shares?

Mr. BALDWIN

I think it would not be advisable whilst negotiations are in progress to say anything about it.

Mr. SCOTT

Are the Government confining the negotiations to one person, or are they willing to receive offers from other persons with regard to the shares?

Mr. BALDWIN

The answer to that depends upon the point which negotiations have reached. Negotiations generally do end ultimately with an individual.

Mr. SCOTT

Does the hon. Gentleman think he is giving information when he gives that answer?

Mr. BALDWIN

I told the hon. Member that I was not in a position to give information because negotiations were proceeding.