HC Deb 23 November 1933 vol 283 c247
25. Colonel WEDGWOOD

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what resolutions or representations he has received to indicate whether his policy of maintaining the independence of sterling is proving satisfactory to the manufacturing and exporting interests of this country?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

No resolutions or representations of this character have been received, but I have every reason to suppose that the policy of maintaining the independence of sterling is, in fact, approved by the interests mentioned.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Are we to understand that the higher the pound goes up and the lower the dollar and the franc fall so all will be for the best in the best of all possible worlds?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

No, Sir, I think that is not a fair conclusion.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Is not that the result of your policy of independence for the pound?

Sir W. BRASS

Is it not a fact that keeping the pound at a permanent level has proved very helpful to manufacturers in this country?

Mr. CHAMBERLAIN

I think manufacturers have every reason to be satisfied with the continued stability of sterling.