HC Deb 24 July 1924 vol 176 cc1514-5
56. Mr. GILBERT

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether any further contract has been entered into by the Government with the Russian Government for the supply of copper coinage from the Mint; if so, will he give details of the contract, and state the quantities of coins to be supplied; and whether the Mint are making any profit on the transaction?

Mr. SNOWDEN

The Royal Mint has contracted with the Government of the Soviet Union to supply them with a coinage of 40,000,000 copper five-kopeck pieces. The conditions of payment are on similar lines to those agreed in respect of the silver coins of which the hon. Member already has information. The charges are calculated to allow a fair profit to the Mint.

Mr. W. GREENWOOD

Will the right hon. Gentleman, take steps to alter the Trade Facilities Act so that industry in this country can obtain facilities similar to those which the Russians can get?

Mr. SNOWDEN

I am afraid that this does not come under the Trade Facilities Act.