§ 43. Mr. Mulleyasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware of the failure of banks in Sheffield to meet the demand for Coronation crown-pieces; and if he will take steps to remedy this or arrange for their distribution through the post offices or other channels.
§ The Chancellor of the Exchequer (Mr. R. A. Butler)I am making inquiries in connection with an individual case of difficulty which the hon. Member has brought to my notice. As regards the general issue, I would refer the hon. Member to the announcement made on 3rd June, that orders for crowns would be accepted by the banks up to 30th June within a total limit of 5 million pieces. I am afraid that, in view of the very heavy demands of the Royal Mint's normal programme of work, I cannot extend the time limit beyond 30th June, or make available, at this very late stage, additional channels of distribution.
§ Mr. MulleyI thank the right hon. Gentleman for the careful consideration of the individual case, but would he consider extending the date in Sheffield for a short period because there may well be others who have had their orders refused by the banks and, as today is the last day, there will not be time to acquaint them of the new information?
§ Mr. ButlerI am extremely sorry, but owing to the circumstances which I have described I am afraid I cannot extend the date any further.