HC Deb 13 March 1923 vol 161 cc1281-2
57. Mr. GRAHAM WHITE

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the exact nature of the services for which the Government directors of the British Cellulose and Chemical Manufacturing Company, Limited, received £1,000 in 1922–23 and are to receive £500 in 1923–24?

Mr. BALDWIN

The services referred to are those normally performed by directors of public companies.

Mr. WHITE

Is there any special reason why these fees should not be paid by the companies rather than by the British taxpayer?

Mr. BALDWIN

I think the special reason is the one that exists in several cases of companies that were founded during the War, where a Government director is there on purpose to watch the interests of the Government and the taxpayer, and is paid as their guardian and representative.