HC Deb 11 March 1987 vol 112 c208W
Mr. Tony Blair

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer why the Bank of England conducted a spot check into the books of the discount houses on the night of Thursday 5 March.

Mr. Ian Stewart

The Bank of England undertakes spot checks to satisfy itself that the prudential framework for the activities of the discount houses is being continuously observed.

Mr. Tony Blair

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer why discount houses were asked by the Bank of England to accept £640 million eight-day loans on Thursday 5 March.

Mr. Ian Stewart

The object of the Bank of England's operations on 5 March was to offset the anticipated money market shortage.