HC Deb 16 May 1922 vol 154 cc230-1
56. Mr. BRIGGS

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware that when the Grampian Electricity Supply Bill was before the Select Committee it was definitely stated in evidence that if the promoters obtained a State guarantee of their debenture issue it was their intention to refer to this in their prospectus; and will he guard the public from being misled as to the form of the State guarantee?

Sir R. HORNE

If a guarantee is given under the Trade Facilities Act the Advisory Committee, appointed under that Act, will scrutinise the prospectus and their approval will have to be obtained before the prospectus is issued, so that there is no danger of the public being misled as to the form of the State guarantee.

Mr. BRIGGS

Does not the right hon. Gentleman think the best way to safeguard the public interest would be to withdraw the guarantee?

Sir R. HORNE

That would be to turn our back on the whole principle of the Trade Facilities Act, which is intended to increase employment in this country.

Mr. BRIGGS

Is the principle of the Trade Facilities Act to invest in speculative matters?

Sir R. HORNE

The principle of the Trade Facilities Bill is to assist by guarantee to enable people, who cannot find the requisite financial facilities at present to proceed with works which are adjudged to be of public benefit.

Mr. BRIGGS again rose

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. Member must not debate the matter further.