HC Deb 15 March 1928 vol 214 cc2101-3
46. Sir FRANK NELSON

asked the Prime Minister if he will receive a deputation of members representing investors in British rubber companies who, as a result of the fall in values following upon the announeement of a Government inquiry, are suffering depreciation in their property?

The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Baldwin)

As my hon. Friend is aware, the whole question is at present under review by the Committee of Civil Research. In these circumstances, while I am always glad to listen to the views of Members of this House, I cannot see my way to receive the deputation asked for.

Sir F. NELSON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in the case of some of the smaller investors a heavy loss has already been sustained by reason of the fact that they have had to throw their shares on the market?

Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

Does that not show that the small investor should not have invested in rubber?

Mr. AUSTIN HOPKINSON

If the Prime Minister will not receive a deputation of investors in rubber companies, will he receive a deputation of speculators in rubber shares?

Lieut.-Colonel Sir FREDERICK HALL

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware of the fact that a great many small investors have invested their money in rubber shares, which they were quite entitled to do; and is he also aware that in many cases they had to liquidate them; that their shares were sold on the Stock Exchange at very small prices and were bought back by American investors?

Mr. MONTAGUE

May I ask the Minister of Health whether these investors could not in despair go and find work?

Major-General Sir ROBERT HUTCHISON

Has the Prime Minister read the leader in the "Morning Post" this morning; and, in view of the increasing difficulty and uncertainty in this market, can he not see his way either to make a lengthy statement on the whole situation, or receive a deputation such as that which has been suggested by the hon. Member for Stroud (Sir F. Nelson)?

The PRIME MINISTER

In answer to the first part of the hon. and gallant Gentleman's supplementary question, I have not read the article in question. As to the second part, this question has been frequently put to me in the House lately, and I have answered it.

Sir F. HALL

May I press the Prime Minister to say whether—

HON. MEMBERS

Order!

Sir F. NELSON

I beg to give notice that I shall draw attention to this subject to-night on the Motion for the Adjournment of the House.