52. Lieut.-Colonel BUCKLEYasked to what extent the use of cheques has increased during the past five years; and whether he has any official information showing whether the issue of Treasury notes has affected the use of cheques?
The CHANCELLOR of the EX CHEQUER (Mr. Chamberlain)The number of cheques stamped has increased 1073 in the period since 1915–16 by about 18 per cent. The Clearing House returns (in spite of bank amalgamations) show an increase in the same period of about 85 per cent. While I have no special information, I see no reason to think that the issue of Treasury notes has materially affected the use of cheques.