§ 68. Dr. Littleasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, as is done in some of the Dominions, he will arrange that the banks in the United Kingdom shall publish annually a list of unclaimed balances.
§ The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Sir John Anderson)My hon. Friend's suggestion would probably involve difficulties arising out of the confidential character of bank accounts; but in any case I could not contemplate asking the banks to consider the proposal at the present time.
§ Dr. LittleDoes my right hon. Friend recognise the difficulties that often arise in dealing with certain estates of deceased persons, owing to the non-publication of these balances?
§ Sir J. AndersonYes, Sir, but on the other hand, the majority of the balances in question are very small indeed, and to 2536 undertake the task of publication at the present time would, apart from all. other considerations, impose an unjustifiable burden on the institutions concerned.
§ Sir Granville GibsonWhat eventually happens to these unclaimed balances?
§ Sir J. AndersonI should like to have notice of that question.