§ 4. Mr. EDEasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will take steps to secure that all companies now operating under a Royal charter shall adopt the method and system of presenting their published accounts, as laid down for limited companies in the Act of 1929?
§ Mr. W. GRAHAMI have consulted my Noble Friend the Lord President of the Council, on this matter, and it would appear that the result suggested in the question could not be secured except by legislation. The matter will be borne in 5 mind in connection with any amendment of the Companies Act or analogous legislation.
§ Mr. EDEWill my right hon. Friend consider whether it is not possible to make representations to the companies having these charters; and will he consult with the Home Secretary with regard to declining to renew or extend any charter where a company does not agree to this proposal?
§ Mr. GRAHAMThe matter relates really to chartered companies which are trading companies, but I can assure my hon. Friend that all these considerations are being borne in mind, and he must await the result of certain investigations which are now proceeding.
§ Mr. HANNONHas the right hon. Gentleman received any complaints of any irregularities in the presentation of their accounts by chartered companies?
§ Mr. GRAHAMThis question plainly refers to previous questions on the Order Paper, and the House will appreciate that I can say nothing at all until the investigations have taken place.