HC Deb 23 July 1946 vol 425 cc1870-1
54. Colonel Crosthwaite-Eyre

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware that, following the recent rise in prices in the U.S.A. and the revaluation of Canadian and Swedish currencies, there has been an influx of funds to this country from the U.S.A., in anticipation of a similar revaluation of sterling; and if he will inform the House as to the measures His Majesty's Government intends to take against this movement assuming considerable proportions.

Mr. Dalton

The influx of funds to this country is due to an increase in the strength of sterling, as the result of the approval of the American Loan by Congress. I do not consider that any measures of the kind suggested in the second part of the Question are required.

Colonel Crosthwaite-Eyre

Does the Chancellor of the Exchequer consider the movement of funds to constitute a genuine long-term investment, or is it merely a speculative one, which may rob his good-natured efforts to improve the value of sterling of much of their effect?

Mr. Dalton

We are watching the position, and so far I am not dissatisfied with the course of events.