HC Deb 06 February 1929 vol 224 cc1795-6W
Mr. SHINWELL

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer the present value of the State's holding in Anglo-Persian stock; what is the annual interest over the past three years; and whether he is prepared to devote some portion of the profits in encouraging and assisting financially the Scottish shale oil industry?

Mr. CHURCHILL

The present value at market prices of the Government's holding of shares and debentures in the Anglo-Persian Oil Company is approximately£33,242,000; and the dividends received in the past three years amounted to£885,030,£947,490 and£572,562, respectively. I am afraid it would be quite impossible to adopt the suggestion contained in the last part of the question, which in any event would require legislation, but the company, I feel assured, will take all possible steps to foster and improve the industry.