§ Sir W. PRESTONasked the President of the Board of Trade whether he is aware that a company, called the Combined Pulp and Paper Company, Limited, registered in October, 1927, purported to make profits in the years 1928 and 1929, and distributed dividends of 20½ per cent. on their ordinary shares and 97 per cent. on their deferred shares; whether he is aware that it has subsequently been 880W found that these profits were not in fact made; and will he take the necessary steps to hold an inquiry by the Board of Trade into the workings of this company?
§ Mr. W. R. SMITHI have seen reports in the Press with regard to the company's financial position. The Board of Trade have no authority to order an inquiry except under Section 135 of the Companies Act, which requires an application by members of the company holding not less than one-tenth of the shares issued.