HC Deb 17 September 1940 vol 365 cc83-4
4. Mr. Bellenger

asked the President of the Board of Trade whether the investigation into the affairs of the Bernales group has disclosed any infringement of company law; and whether, as the activities of these mining companies are of importance to the investing public both at home and in the Dominions, he will make a public statement?

The President of the Board of Trade (Sir Andrew Duncan)

I am not in a position to make any public statement on this matter at present, beyond saying that I have been in communication with the directors of the companies concerned, who have informed me that copies of the inspector's reports will be made available to the shareholders.

Mr. Bellenger

Are not these reports to be made public property? I 7understood it was undertaken by a Government inspector, and, therefore, it should be made available to the general public.

Sir A. Duncan

I hope I shall not be pressed to make any elaboration of my answer. The reports will be made available for shareholders and, at the same time, may also be made available to the public.

Mr. Bellenger

I do not want to press the right hon. Gentleman unduly, but will he answer the first part of the Question, as to whether this investigation has disclosed any infringement of company law?

Sir A. Duncan

I have already said that I am not in a position to make any public statement on the matter at present.