HC Deb 11 May 1944 vol 399 cc2086-7
56. Mr. Graham White

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury if consideration has been given to the desirability of saving labour and paper by making arrangements for the payment of interest on 2½ per cent. Consols and other Trustee Securities by half-yearly instead of quarterly payments.

Mr. Assheton

Yes, Sir. As regards Government stocks on which dividends are paid quarterly, it has been established that in view of the limited amount of debt involved, no appreciable saving of labour or paper would be achieved by the suggested alteration. The arrangement has definite advantages, for certain classes of investors. A change of practice would require amendment of the law, and I do not think that a case has been made for it.