§ 56. Mr. GILLETTasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he has considered the advisability of calling an-international conference on the gold problem, on the lines suggested in the resolutions of the Financial Commission of the Genoa Conference, 1922?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI would refer the hon. Member to my reply given on the 24th February to my hon Friend the Member for Eastern Aberdeen, of which I am sending him a copy.
§ Mr. GILLETTIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the United States Government are proposing to call such a conference?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI have not been so informed.
§ Mr. W. THORNEHas the right hon. Gentleman taken notice of the discussion in this country regarding the gold problem; and will he tell us whether it is the Government or the bankers who will decide whether we are going back to the gold standard?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLI have read a very interesting series of observations by the hon. Member on the subject, and I have read statements by other authorities. The Government hold themselves free to handle this matter in their own time, and in their own way, and I am sure that will most conduce to the public interest.
§ Mr. THORNEIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that he has not 240 answered the question I put to him? What I want to know is whether the Bank of England or the Government will decide whether we are going back to the gold standard?
§ Mr. CHURCHILLThe Government will decide that on their own responsibility.