HC Deb 08 July 1937 vol 326 cc553-4
42 and 43. Mr. Lewis

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer (1) what proposals the South African Government have made for a reduction in the output from South African mines while the present glut of gold persists;

(2) what proposals the South African Government have made for assisting the British Government in the purchase and hoarding of gold with a view to the maintenance of the present high sterling price for gold?

Sir J. Simon

No such proposals have been made.

Mr. Lewis

Do I understand from the reply that although the South African Government wish the British Government to maintain high sterling prices of gold, they are not prepared to share in the expense of so doing, when they themselves benefit so very largely from it?

Sir J. Simon

I have answered the question on the Paper, and I have nothing to add.