HC Deb 20 December 1938 vol 342 cc2659-60
16. Mr. James Hall

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is now in a position to make a statement with regard to the application of shareholders of the Gaumont-British Corporation, Limited, lodged on 18th January, 1938, for an investigation into the affairs of that company?

Mr. Stanley

Although the application for the appointment of an inspector to investigate the affairs of Gaumont-British Picture Corporation, Limited, has been under consideration for some time, it has been necessary for a variety of reasons to defer a decision up to the present. I hope, however, to arrive at a decision shortly.

Mr. Hall

Does the right hon. Gentleman know that his Department made a definite promise some months ago that this matter would be considered at an early date; and as the application has been presented by over 3,000 independent shareholders, will he facilitate an early inquiry?

Mr. Stanley

One of the reasons for the delay is that at one period during the summer these applicants themselves asked that the decision should be held up.