HC Deb 17 March 1925 vol 181 cc2183-4

Considered in Committee. [Progress, 10th March.]

[Captain FITZ Roy in the Chair.]

CLAUSE 1.—(Increase of amount of loans which may be guaranteed under 11 and 12 Geo. 5. c. 65, and extension of period for giving guarantees.)

Question again proposed, "That the Clause stand part of the, Bill."

Mr. BUCHANAN

I only want to see if it is not possible, even at this late stage, to go into the question of the money so far as shipbuilding is concerned. I know hon. Members think we have thrashed out this subject almost to the point of endurance, but it is a very important matter for the City which we represent. I wish to ask this point of the Financial Secretary to the Treasury, whether, in view of shipbuilding contracts having been placed abroad, causing so much concern to our people, it is not possible even now to go into the whole question of the relationship of shipbuilding, and see if it be not possible for greater aid to be given to the industry in this time of need.

The FINANCIAL SECRETARY to the TREASURY (Mr. Guinness)

As the hon. Member knows, we have withdrawn the embargo on the shipbuilding guarantee, and we are most anxious that there should be no gap in our payments, which might be the case if we did not act this Bill.

Mr. FENBY

May I ask what rate of interest is to be paid on borrowed money?

Mr. GUINNESS

We do not borrow money: we only give guarantees.

Mr. FENBY

May I ask what are the charges, and does the rate vary over a period?

Mr. GUINNESS

This is entirely for unemployment. We do not borrow money; we only guarantee it.

Question put, and agreed to.

Clause 2 (Short Title) ordered to stand part of the Bill.

Bill reported, without Amendment; to be read the Third time To-morrow.