HC Deb 23 March 1938 vol 333 cc1206-7
74. Mr. R. Gibson

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury, what is the amount of unclaimed deposits lying in the banks in Scotland as at 31st December, 1937, or other convenient date; and whether he has any proposals to make regarding the most suitable application of such deposits in the interests of Scotland?

The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Lieut.-Colonel Colville)

I have no information regarding the amount of unclaimed deposits in the banks in Scotland at the present time, but there is no evidence to suggest that the amount is considerable. The answer to the second part of the question is in the negative.

Mr. Gibson

Has the right hon. and gallant Member consulted the Lord Ordinary and the King's Remembrancer? Is he aware that during the war these deposits were made available for national purposes?

Lieut.-Colonel Colville

The hon. and learned Member will recollect that this question was examined by a Select Committee in 1919 and it was decided to take no action. Any legislation to appropriate these balances for the Treasury would be highly contentious.

Mr. McGovern

Will the Financial Secretary supply a list so that we can scrutinise them?