§ 50. Mr. Stokesasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the highest rate within his knowledge charged by banks to agricultural borrowers?
§ Sir K. WoodI have no detailed knowledge of the rates charged in individual cases.
§ Mr. StokesDoes not the Chancellor of the Exchequer recall that recently he made a statement which purported to give the average rate charged on agricultural borrowings, and will he explain to the House how he arrived at the average rate, if he did not know the highest rate?
§ Sir K. WoodMy statement was as to the average rate, which was based upon general information which was given to me.
§ Mr. StokesCan the Chancellor of the Exchequer state what was the highest loan rate on which that general rate was arrived at as the average?
§ Sir K. WoodNo, Sir.