§ 71. Mr. Greyasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if his attention has been drawn to the shortage of copper coins throughout the North-east, causing embarrassment to shopkeepers and public alike; and if he will take steps to alleviate this shortage.
§ Mr. Glenvil HallNo recent complaints to this effect have reached my right hon. Friend. 114 million pennies have been issued since October, 1944.
§ Mr. MurrayIs the hon. Gentleman aware that there are great complaints in 624 Durham about a shortage of coppers, and that even in the county mental hospital they can scarcely carry on for want of coppers?
§ Mr. HallI understand it is quite a common thing at this time of the year, round about Christmas, for certain localities to find themselves short, but I can tell my hon. Friend that coppers are now being turned out at the rate of £6,000 worth a week.