HC Deb 05 December 1935 vol 307 cc289-90
41. Mr. THURTLE

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he expects to be in a position in the near future to take the House into his confidence regarding the position of the Fund, from the point of view of credit or loss, which is being used for the purpose of ensuring the stability of the exchanges?

Mr. MORRISON

I cannot see my way to modify the practice which has so far prevailed.

Mr. THURTLE

Is the hon. and learned Member aware that there is great anxiety in this House to know the true position of this vast sum of public money?

Mr. MORRISON

No, Sir; I am not aware of that anxiety.

Mr. THURTLE

May I convey it to him now?

Mr. MORRISON

My right hon. Friend has made it a practice in recent years to make a statement concerning the state of the Fund when he opens his Budget. I think that that practice is deemed fit to be followed at the present time.

Mr. GEORGE GRIFFITHS

The right hon. Gentleman has never said anything about it.

Mr. THORNE

How many times has the Fund been used to rescue France during the last 12 months?

Mr. MORRISON

I am afraid I could not answer that question.