HC Deb 29 January 1931 vol 247 cc1153-4W
Earl CASTLE STEWART

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the large sales of silver made in recent years by the Government of India, of the low world price for this metal, and of the consequent reduction of the purchasing power of Far Eastern countries, he will approach the Governments of the United States and France with a view to taking such joint action as may Le possible to rehabilitate the value of silver?

Mr. P. SNOWDEN

I am not aware that any practicable proposals for the rehabilitation of the value of silver have hitherto been suggested, and I do not think that any useful purpose would be served by action on the lines suggested by the Noble Lord.

Mr. MORLEY

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether, in view of the continued drain of gold from the Bank of England, the Treasury is in consultation with the Bank with a view to increasing the fiduciary issue?

Mr. SNOWDEN

The answer is in the negative.

Mr. MORLEY

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is the attitude of His Majesty's Government towards the recommendations of the gold delegation of the League of Nations; and what international action it proposes thereon?

Mr. SNOWDEN

The further interim report of the gold delegation relating to the distribution of gold which has just been prepared is being transmitted by the League to the various Governments for their consideration, and time will be required for its study before any view can be expressed as to further action.