§ Mr. Ridleyasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he has approved the following increased dividends declared during the standstill; and if he will give, in each case approved, detailed reasons for his approval: namely, Kleinwort Benson up from 15 per cent. to 15½ per cent., Colborn Group up from 20 per cent. to 22 per cent., and Scottish Northern Investment Trust up from 3.125p. to 3.29p.
Mr. NonThe question of Treasury approval has not arisen in these cases. Kleinwort Benson has not declared a dividend during the standstill; the declaration during the standstill by Colborn Group was the same as that in the corresponding period a year ago; and Scottish Northern Investment Trust is, 343W like other investment trusts, excluded from dividend restraint.