§ 21. Colonel Crosthwaite-Eyreasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is now able to make a statement on the future of the Capital Issues Committee.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerI have nothing to add to the reply given on 4th November to the hon. Member for Orkney and Shetland (Mr. Grimond) by my hon. Friend the Economic Secretary to the Treasury.
§ Colonel Crosthwaite-EyreIn view of the changed pattern and needs of the country, is my right hon. Friend aware that it is essential to make a change in this Capital Issues Committee? It has been under discussion and consideration for a long time. When does he hope to make the change which is so necessary and has been so long awaited?
§ Mr. ButlerI cannot at present give any date when I can make any statement.
§ Mr. Roy JenkinsCan the Chancellor tell us whether the Capital Issues Committee has in practice been rejecting any applications in recent months?
§ Mr. ButlerAs the Economic Secretary pointed out in the previous exchange, the number of rejections is small, but there are rejections and I think there is a use for the Committee. As I have said, however, the matter is continually under review. I cannot make a further statement at present.