Banks (Lending Policy)

HC Deb 17 March 1970 vol 798 cc195-6

36. Mr. J. H. Osborn

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what direction he will now give to the banks on their lending policy.

Mr. Roy Jenkins

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply which I gave to the hon. Member for Acton (Mr. Kenneth Baker) on 17th February.—[Vol. 796, c. 195–6.]

Mr. Osborn

Is not the right hon. Gentleman aware of the bankruptcies amongst smaller firms and the lack of credit affecting larger firms and, in view of the more reasonable conditions, will he now give a direction to the Bank of England and the banks to be more lenient in their policy?

Mr. Jenkins

I have nothing to add to what I said in reply to a similar Question earlier.