HC Deb 08 January 1913 vol 46 cc1194-5W
Mr. FIELD

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware of the facts that the average lowest price of silver as quoted in London from 1873 to 1887 was 50 l–16d. as against 39⅝d. for 1888 to 1893; wheher he is aware that 29 per cent. of the depreciation took place in the latter year when all option contracts became subjected to a daily settlement for gambling differences, and that the price gradually fell to 24d. by 1902; and whether he will cause inquiries to be made as to whether there were any other root causes to account for the price depreciation since 1888, other than the introduction into London in that year of this metal as a gambling commodity under the bear and bull systems of options and futures?

Mr. LLOYD GEORGE

I cannot add anything to the replies given to the hon. Member on behalf of the Secretary of State for India on 31st December and 7th January.