HC Deb 02 July 1940 vol 362 cc675-6
54. Sir P. Hannon

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will state in round figures the contribution to the finance of the war by firms and individuals who have decided to make loans to the Government free of interest during the process of the war and whether any special appeal is being made for the continuance of further investments on similar conditions?

Sir K. Wood

The total amount received in loans free of interest up to this morning is 6,766,080, apart from various offers which have been notified to me but not yet completed. The appeal which I made was for the duration of the war, and I trust that I shall continue to receive such loans from persons or companies in a position to make their contribution to the war effort in this way.

Mr. Stokes

In view of the magnificent response, does the Chancellor not think it about time that he took advantage of his own powers, and issued credit free of interest, as he now controls the banks?

Mr. Glenvil Hall

Do any of the banks subscribe to the non-interest loans?