HC Deb 09 November 1943 vol 393 cc1089-90
63. Mr. W. H. Green

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will take steps to ensure that War Savings Certificates purchased by a wife out of savings from her housekeeping money shall remain her property?

Sir J. Anderson

As regards the position of Savings Certificates, I would refer the hon. Member to the reply given by my predecessor on 18th May last to the hon. Member for West Fulham (Dr. Summerskill). I would also refer to the reply given last Wednesday by my right hon. and learned Friend the Attorney-General to the same hon. Member on the general question of a wife's savings.

Mr. Green

As I have not these answers in my mind, can the Chancellor of the Exchequer say, in answer to the Question, whether it is possible for a wife's savings in War Savings Certificates to be taken by the husband?

Sir J. Anderson

The effect of the answer to which I referred the hon. Member was that the amount represented by War Savings Certificates can only be withdrawn by application in writing by the registered owner.

Mr. Green

Is it a fact that the policy of the Exchequer is to disregard the source of the savings and only to have regard to the final avenue through which these savings are directed?

Sir J. Anderson

The Exchequer cannot be cognisant of the source of savings.