§ Mr. Bruce-Gardyneasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what study he has given to the decision of Rugby Portland Cement to declare an immediate interim dividend payable simultaneously with its final dividend in respect of the last financial year; and if he will refrain from seeking powers to prevent other companies copying this example.
§ Mr. DiamondIt is convenient to both the Government and to companies to operate the dividend restraint scheme by reference to total dividend payments in respect of companies' own account years. But if companies seek to avoid dividend restraint, the Government will need to consider other methods of operation.