HC Deb 25 January 1949 vol 460 c750
62. Mr. Emrys Hughes

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many pawnbrokers were registered in Scotland in 1938 and 1948, respectively.

Sir S. Cripps

Three hundred and nineteen and 225 in the financial years 1937–38 and 1947–48. The official figures are for financial years.

Mr. Hughes

Would the Chancellor agree that the decline in this industry is due to less poverty and less unemployment among the workers of Scotland?

Sir S. Cripps

I imagine so, and also to the nature of the Scottish character.

Lieut.-Commander Gurney Braithwaite

While there has been a decrease in the number of pawnbrokers, has there not been a large increase in the number of unredeemed pledges?

Sir S. Cripps

The hon. and gallant Gentleman ought to know all about that.