§ 34. Mr. GEOFFREY PETOasked the Postmaster-General whether he is aware that various societies have innocently purchased National Savings Certificates in the name of their members, and have forfeited the interest on their investment because these certificates may only be held by individuals for themselves; and 2759 whether he will take steps to warn future purchasers of this restriction by a suitable notice on the application forms and certificates?
§ Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSONVery few cases of the kind have come under notice. I have no power to pay interest on such investments. The space on the certificates is restricted and it is only possible to print on them the principal conditions regarding purchase. The Regulations are clearly stated on page 130 of the Post Office Guide, the recognised channel for conveying to the public information regarding Post Office business, and in various pamphlets, issued by the National Savings Committee; and I scarcely think that any additional measures are necessary.
§ Mr. PETOIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Post Office Guide consists of 750 pages and costs one shilling? Is it reasonable to expect every small investor to purchase a copy and is that the sort of prospectuses we shall have when we have nationalised industry?
§ Sir W. MITCHELL-THOMSONIn reply to the last part of the question there are leaflets issued by the National War Savings Committee. As regards the first part, there is a copy of the Post Office Guide available in every Post Office.